The stark change in season may have brought respite from the brain-macerating cold but, it also made us vulnerable to cold, cough, and fever. People with a poor immune system have to face the wrath of the flu-breeding season the most. In the wake of the Coronavirus and seasonal flu scare, it is important to take care of your health and prevent all infections in the best possible way. Sticking to a healthy diet is the first step you can take to strengthen your immunity naturally. However, you can speed up the process with certain foods that contain specific immunity-boosting properties. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, which can help build immunity.
5 Foods That May Boost Immunity Naturally:
1. Citrus Fruits: White blood cells are known to protect your body from common infections and diseases, but the body cannot produce them itself. Vitamin C is said to propel the production of white blood cells. So, have citrus fruits like orange and grapefruit daily to increase your intake of vitamin C.
2. Broccoli: The green-colored vegetable contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and lots of fiber. It is also rich in antioxidant compounds - all these qualities make broccoli a great food for boosting immunity.
3. Garlic: Garlic is known to provide many health benefits. It can help manage blood pressure and prevent the hardening of arteries. Early civilizations used garlic in scores for warding off bacterial infection and flu.
4. Ginger: Gingered, a compound found in ginger, is highly effective against cough, sore throat, and other inflammatory illnesses. Ginger may also help in lowering down and stabilizing cholesterol levels.
5. Turmeric: Turmeric had been used in remedial practices to fight inflammation and infections for ages. Ancient medicines prove that turmeric, which contains high amounts of curcumin compound, is rich in antioxidants, which also help prevent heart ailments, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Prevention is better than cure - we all have heard it several times. It's time to put it in practice during this critical period of virus pandemic and rampant flu.
6. Hot Soups:
A bowl of hot chicken broth is the perfect quick fix for those days when you decide to eat light. Not only is it good for hydration, but chicken soups also contain a good source of protein and starch. Moreover, the flavorful notes of garlic, onions, and ginger make it a delightful meal. To battle common cold and flu during the season, hot soups help to declot your nasal passages by increasing the temperature of your airways. It also promotes increased secretions that aid in getting rid of bacteria and viruses from your system. While the spices have an anti-inflammatory effect against colds and even help suppress coughing, pain, and fever and act as a mild sedative too. Garlic in particular targets H. pylori, the culprit for ulcers and stomach cancers.
7. Dry Fruits and Nuts:
Dry fruits like walnuts, almonds, and dates provide the essential vitamins and minerals for building immunity. They contain vitamin E, niacin, and riboflavin. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps keep cells healthy. Consuming nuts may help you adapt and react to stress better. Try mixing them with dried fruits to get a good mix of sugar with protein to keep those energy levels high.
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