Over the past year, the importance of having a solid immune system has well-established itself. It is best for all of us today to make sure that we have a nutritious diet that balances and supplements our immune system.
However, we must mention that the foods listed below are in no way a cure for any disease. They are to keep you healthy, fit, and strong so that you can be the best version of yourself.
Now let’s find out what makes the immune-boosting platter:
1. Garlic
Garlic is commonly known as a home remedy for cold and other illnesses. Researchers have also observed that garlic consumption can reduce the risk of catching a cold significantly.
Some of the other benefits of garlic are:
• Raw garlic is rich in Manganese, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Selenium, and fiber.
• Compounds in garlic are known to reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
• Improves cholesterols and risk of heart disease.
• Is also known to play a part in the prevention of alzheimer’s and dementia.
A clove or two of crushed garlic everyday can help you charge your immune system.
2. Ghee or clarified butter
Indians across the subcontinent consume dairy products. However, people often brand ghee as fattening and unhealthy. The truth could not be farther away from the myth.
Ghee is very beneficial for the body and is a source of Omega fatty acids, Vitamins A, K, and E. Pure cow milk ghee is also said to provide warmth to the body and keep it protected from cough and cold.
Not just that, ghee keeps your skin, gut, and hair healthy. Depending on your current BMI and lifestyle, you can consume anywhere between 3 to 6 tablespoons a day. However, excessive consumption of it can become fattening, so please exercise portion control.
3. Chyawanprash
Indians revere Chyawanprash for its immune-boosting properties, an age-old Indian concoction of herbs, roots, and other ayurvedic elements. The herb mixture has probably been consumed by every Indian during some part of their lives, either from their parents or their grandparents. Chyawanprash reduces the risk of cough and cold and keeps the respiratory system cleansed and uncongested.
If you are especially vulnerable to catching colds, try a spoon of Chyawanprash in a cup of warm water two to three times a day. Soon, your sneezes will turn into healthy smiles.
4. Tulsi
Considered sacred in many Indian households, Tulsi is a plant that has been commended for its properties both by modern science and Ayurveda. The herb is known to rejuvenate the respiratory system. It has immune-modulating, expectorant, and antitussive properties that keep your lungs clean.
Consuming Tulsi is also very easy – you can chew on them early in the morning or boil them along with your morning tea and some ginger.
5. Turmeric Milk
Drinking this golden drink before bed can not only help boost your immunity but also enhance your body’s healing process with anti-inflammatory properties. Milk is known to contain calcium, protein, and vitamin B12. At the same time, Turmeric’s antioxidative properties make for a power-packed drink served with a teaspoon of jaggery.
Known as Turmeric Latte in the west, it has become quite a phenomenon outside of India as well. However, we have been consuming this drink and enjoying it for centuries. Here are some of the benefits:
• Rich in antioxidants
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Lowers blood sugar
• Improves mood
And these are not all. You can well imagine how potent this drink is!
6. Amla
Amla or Indian gooseberry is used heavily in Ayurveda and provides many benefits upon consumption. It helps treat digestion and improves gut health, thus boosting your immunity.
The berry is also rich in Vitamin C and contains essential amino acids and minerals. Amla juice in warm water is a great morning drink and can help wake you up with its unique taste and charge the body with its goodness.
All of the six foods we have listed above have been used in home remedies for countless years in Indian households. Each of these foods naturally occurs with no side effects and gives your immune response that extra boost.
Couple them with 7-8 hours of sleep and some exercise every day, and you, too, will start feeling the change in your body.
Club Outdo Event Update
We understand how important it is to be at your fittest during these times. Which is why we are bringing you:
Supercharge your Immunity
Join an eye-opening workshop with Vinita Contractor, certified holistic nutrition and lifestyle coach.
Learn about:
• 8 factors that support your immune system
• Comprehensive nutrition guide specific to COVID 19
• Bad habits that may affect your immunity and so much more.
Saturday, 5th June | 5 – 6 PM
REGISTER NOW and do your part to keep your family healthy!
If you enjoyed reading this blog, we also suggest you read 5 Nutrition Tips for Sportspersons to Help Achieve their Goals.