Vegetables are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
To stay healthy and keep off infections during the monsoon season, it is crucial to increase your immunity.
As the monsoon season arrives, it becomes essential to prioritise our health and guard against infections. One of the key factors in staying healthy during this time is boosting our immunity. While there may not be a single miraculous food that can magically enhance our immunity, incorporating nutrient-rich superfoods into our diet can certainly strengthen our body’s defences against infections. By including these superfoods in your daily meals, you can provide your body with the necessary nutrients to fight off illnesses and maintain overall fitness. So, let’s dive into the world of immunity-boosting foods and discover how they can support your well-being during the monsoon season and beyond.
Leafy vegetables: Vegetables with a leafy green colour, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help in maintaining a strong immune system. They are particularly high in folate, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E. You may sauté them as a side dish or add them to soups, salads, and smoothies.
Citrus fruit: There is an abundance of Vitamin C in citrus fruits including oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes and is believed to improve the immune system. White blood cells, which are essential for warding off infections, are stimulated by vitamin C. Snack on these fruits, squeeze their juice into the water for a cool beverage, or add it to salad dressings.
Garlic- Garlic has a high concentration of Sulphur compounds like allicin which naturally strengthens the immune system. These substances contain antibacterial qualities that can aid in the battle against viruses and bacteria. Cook using fresh garlic or, if you’d like, take supplements that are odourless with garlic.
Amla- Also known as gooseberry, it has long been used in Indian households to make achaar/murabba and
other foods. However, it is also well known for treating common illnesses including the common cold, sore throat, digestive problems, etc. Amla is filled with minerals that boost immunity in addition to being high in antioxidants. It helps the body detoxify itself and is excellent for diabetics, with poor eyesight, hair, or heart health. This fruit also has a lot of fiber, which can help people lose weight. It can be ingested in many different ways, including as juice, sweets, or even raw fruit.
Ginger- It is a powerful immunity booster food that has been known for its medicinal properties for centuries. Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive substance with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cooking with fresh ginger is delicious. You can also add it to drinks and stir-fries.