While our bodies require nutrition from a wide variety of food groups, studies have shown that plant foods-fruits, vegetables, herbs and grains-nourish the body in ways that other foods cannot. They provide phytochemicals that are the building blocks that support the immune system's fight to maintain health.

Cactus
The cactus plant's thorny exterior guards a remarkable source of nutrition. Once nature's best-kept secret, scientists have uncovered a number of well-known nutrients among the thousands of phytochemicals in cactus, including carotenes and ascorbic acid, which strengthen antioxidant activity. In addition to supporting a strong immune system, studies have shown that cactus can reduce inflammation, maintain healthy cholesterol and sugar levels, and enhance the body's overall health.

Mushrooms
For thousands of years, herbalists have turned to mushrooms to treat a variety of ailments. Today, science has focused on the link between the polysaccharides found in mushrooms and a healthy immune system. Examples of such extraordinary mushrooms include reishi, which provides cardiovascular support; shiitake, which enhances the immune system's ability to defend against invaders; and maitake, the most potent immunostimulant of all mushrooms.

Ginseng Berry
Ginseng berry growth is restricted to certain areas of the world due to climate and weather conditions, making it difficult to cultivate. When this rare berry is picked, it is after a three- to four-year wait, and then the harvest must occur during a short, two-week period. Due to these extreme conditions for growth, the ginseng berry is virtually an untapped treasure in the nutritional industry. However, it contains potent antioxidants called ginsenosides-more and different than those found in the root of the ginseng plant. These nutrients enhance the body's natural defense system to aid against invading free radicals.

Soy
Although soy has been a staple of Asian cuisine for centuries, Westerners have only recently discovered its valuable health benefits. Soy is a source of easily digestible protein and contains no saturated fat or cholesterol.

Scientists have demonstrated through over 40 studies, spanning a 20-year period that eating 25 grams of soy per day helps reduce the risk of America's number one killer—heart disease. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), eating 25 grams of soy per day as a part of a low fat, low-cholesterol diet may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Grape Seed
Oligomeric proanthocyanidin, better known as OPC, is a powerful antioxidant found in grape seed. Scientific studies have shown that OPC's antioxidant power is 20 times stronger than vitamin C and 50 times stronger than vitamin E. OPC is also thought to increase the effectiveness of other antioxidants by helping them regenerate after neutralizing free radicals. Research results suggest that OPC protects cells from free radical damage and strengthens and repairs connective tissue-especially that of the cardiovascular system.