Let’s talk about the best foods that help to boost your immune system.
A nutritious diet and an optimally functioning immune system can never go wrong. If you have a healthy immune system, your body can safeguard you from any disease, even the novel coronavirus or COVID-19. While as of now, there is neither any vaccine available nor proven home remedy to protect you from the COVID-19, there are some vitamins and foods which you can inculcate in your diet to have a strong immune system and in turn, fight the infectious disease.
Here are the Best Foods To Boost Your Immune System
1. Oranges
Let me tell you a story about how I got rid of a flu that I had for 2 weeks in 24 hours. About 2 years ago, I had a influenza flu. A week and a half had passed and I wasn’t getting any better. Ps, I had tried medication, like Lemsip, which tastes disgusting. So, I did some research and came across an article that suggested: Oranges.
I bought a pack of 10 and had it all within the hour. That’s right, 10 oranges, I devoured in total. Then I went and took a nap. The following day, my flu was gone. I felt 10 times better than the previous day.
Oranges are known for their vitamin C content, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Research suggests that these citrus phytochemicals help support the body and protect us from conditions such as heart disease and cancer – they’re also thought to have some anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antimicrobial benefits.
2. Yogurt
Yogurt is another phenomenal food you can eat to combat a flu. It contains live bacteria may help fight off the flu. Yogurt is also a good source of protein. You can eat yogurt while your throat is sore, but just be sure to choose whole yogurts without any added sugars.
Hint: Greek yogurt is filled with sickness-fighting probiotics and is packed with more protein than regular yogurt
3. Fluids.
Staying hydrated is important, and that’s why fluids are an important part of your flu-recovery. Fluids help break up congestion and stave off infections. Here are some fluids you can drink:
- Water
- Chicken broth
- Ginger tea
- Herbal tea with honey
- Honey and lemon tea (mix equal parts with hot water)
- 100 percent juices (look for products without added sugars)
4. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens contain plenty of fiber, which aids digestion. These vegetables also provide key nutrients, such as vitamin C, iron and folid acid. They play a massive role in supporting your immune system.
Leafy greens can be an easy addition to soups or stews. They can also make an excellent side dish. Examples of these vegetables include:
- kale
- spinach
- cabbage
- swiss chard
- collard greens
5. Ginger
Ginger may help relieve any nausea that accompanies the flu. Properties in ginger can help with the digestive process, and the emptying of the stomach, in particular.
You can combine ginger with water, honey, and lemon to make an herbal tea.
One review found evidence to suggest that ginger was more effective than a placebo in treating:
- morning sickness
- seasickness
- chemotherapy-induced nausea
The researchers also noted that ginger helped lower the frequency of vomiting and the intensity of nausea during pregnancy.
Chopped ginger root or ground ginger can be a delicious addition to soups, stews, and other meals. Ginger also goes well in herbal teas or a mixture of hot water, honey, and lemon.
What to avoid
Knowing what to avoid eating with the flu is perhaps just as important as what you should eat. When you’re sick with the flu, avoid the following items:
- Alcohol. This lowers your immune system and causes dehydration.
- Caffeinated beverages. Items such as coffee, black tea, and soda can make you more dehydrated. Plus, many of these beverages may contain sugar.
- Hard or jagged foods. Crunchy crackers, chips, and foods with similar textures can aggravate a cough and sore throat.
- Processed foods. Whether these are from a fast food joint or made from a box, the more processed a food is, the fewer nutrients you’ll get. With the flu, your body is trying to heal itself, so it’s important to support the process with whole, nutritious foods.
What other foods do you know that has help to boost your immune system? Share them in the comments!
For more lifestyle posts, click here
HEY GORGEOUS! I’D LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN MY NEWSLETTERS.
You will be the first to hear about the new designer dupes before everyone else!
Including, a curated edit of style tips to improve your style + top trends, shopping guides, beauty & skin care tips – all packed with expert insight.
Comments
Comments
Loading…