Leafy green vegetables

Leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, arugula, mustard greens, and Swiss chard are high in nutrients that reduce inflammation, boost immune function, and promote wound healing, making them an excellent choice for recuperation. Leafy greens are abundant in vitamin C, manganese, magnesium, folate, and provitamin A, which are all important for immune function and overall health.

They are also high in polyphenol antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting qualities. In fact, research suggests that some polyphenols found in green leafy vegetables, such as the antioxidant quercetin, may help decrease the production of inflammatory proteins like TNF-alpha. Furthermore, because vitamin C is required for wound healing, leafy greens are an excellent choice for those recovering from surgery.