5 Immunity Boosting Foods To Include In Your Diet : Loving the rains? Well, not that we want to act like a spoilsport, but a word of caution is necessary, especially if you tend to fall ill quite often. With the onset of monsoon, our immunity becomes weak due to the change in the weather, as such making us susceptible to various kinds of infections. With the excess of moisture everywhere, it’s the best time for harmful microorganisms to flourish. So if we are not careful about our health, we can fall prey to common cold and flu, and viral infections.
At times like these, what can help is tending to your diet. A healthy diet that includes immunity boosting foods can shield you against infections. To get you monsoon ready, we list down five superfood that you need to include in your daily diet:
1. Spices like turmeric, black pepper and hing
Indian spices such as turmeric and black pepper are known for their antimicrobial and anti inflammatory properties that help in boosting immunity. The active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant, whereas black pepper too contains antioxidants and essential vitamins. Hing or asafoetida is known for its carminative, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, sedative and diuretic properties. Sprinkle them in your food to make the most of their health benefits. Eg haldi doodh, pepper tea, soups, masala veggies, etc.
2. Add a punch of garlic
Love garlic naan, garlic bread or garlic prawns? Well, the monsoon is the right time to make the most of your love for garlic as it can help you boost your immunity and fight infection. Studies have shown that garlic is highly effective in killing countless microorganisms that are responsible for various infections, thanks to chemical compounds like allicin that are found in garlic.
3. Cherries and other antioxidant rich fruits
You may have heard it umpteen times before but the fact remains that antioxidants work wonders in keeping you in the best of health. They fight against infections and free radicals that lead to heart problems, cancer and skin ageing. Add antioxidant rich fruits like cherries, gooseberries and blueberries, as well as vitamin C rich fruits like oranges and lemons to your diet.
4. Mushrooms
No wonder mushrooms bloom in the rainy season. It’s nature’s way of giving you a means to protect yourself from infection. Edible mushrooms contain a powerful antioxidant called selenium, which helps boost immunity and prevent damage to cells and tissues. It’s also a great dietary source of vitamin D. Make mushroom soups or stir-fries and enjoy.
5. Nuts
Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, etc. are packed with health benefiting nutrients. Nuts are again a great source of antioxidants, in the form of polyphenols, which can combat oxidative stress by fighting free radicals so they can’t harm your cells. Thus helping your immune system.
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