What foods to eat to boost immunity against the flu?

Immunity is your body’s ability to fight against disease-causing pathogens by removing any outside elements that differ from healthy cells in the body. A weak immune system can lead to various illnesses, so maintaining a strong immune system is essential for a healthy life and well-being.

How does the flu affect immunity?

Flu is an infection caused by a virus. So, when that virus is recognized by the immune system, it starts working towards eliminating it. When the immune system spends energy on eliminating the virus, it starts getting weak and might need some help to make it strong again. Immune-boosting foods can help build immunity during the flu.

How to build immunity with food?

A healthy diet that contains immunity-boosting foods is vital for maintaining a strong immune system. It should include foods rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants. Immune-boosting foods for flu, cold, cough and other such diseases can help strengthen your immune system.

What foods should I consume in cold weather and winters?

The dry and slightly heavy winter air makes people get sicker because it makes it difficult to breathe and dries out the respiratory tract, allowing pathogens to easily enter the body and cause illnesses. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you keep your body warm by consuming foods that internally heat it up. Some examples of recommended food in cold weather are:

• Hot soups: Prepare soups with vegetables, chicken, etc. for a warm and nutritious meal.
• Porridge: Cereal-rich foods can help provide an ample amount of energy and warmth to the body.
• Hot beverages: Beverages, such as tea, can be the best option to obtain antioxidants and warmth.
• Warm desserts: Puddings, halwa, etc. provide excellent and warm food options for cold weather.

What kind of diet is good during infections and viral fevers?

A healthy diet is essential to support the body’s recovery from fever, maintain hydration, and reduce the effect of fever on the immune system. Here are some of the recommendations to follow during viral fever:

• Hydration: Drink fluids like water, teas, clear soups, broths, and ORS to maintain hydration and obtain nutrients.
• Fruits: Consume fresh fruits rich in vitamin C and antioxidants to boost your immunity.
• Yoghurt: Probiotic foods can help with gut health and boost the immune system.
• Avoid caffeine: Caffeinated beverages can dehydrate you, so try to avoid coffee.
• Small meals: In fever, people can suffer from reduced appetite. Small meals throughout the day can help people get enough nutrients.
• Lean protein: Eating lean meats like chicken can repair tissues and boost the immune system.

How to increase immunity against colds and coughs naturally?

Cold and cough can not be prevented but you can take a few steps to reduce the symptoms and discomfort. Some of these steps are:

• Balanced diet: Consuming a balanced diet for cough and cold requires essential foods rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, etc. for recovery.
• Hydration: To boost immunity, consume lots of water, soups, juices, etc.
• Get proper rest: The cold quickly exhausts the body, so proper sleep and rest are necessary for faster recovery.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol: It is important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol as they can weaken the immune system.
• Ginger, garlic and turmeric: These ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties and can enhance the flavour of the dishes.

Which foods should I eat if I have a cold and cough?

Food for cold and cough that can help alleviate the symptoms and build immunity are:

• Citrus fruits: Fruits rich in vitamin C can help your body fight off infections faster and treat the symptoms of a cold quickly. Oranges, pineapples, strawberries, etc. provide very good sources of vitamin C.
• Honey: Honey is a very effective food against cold and cough because it contains antibacterial properties. Consuming 1 spoon of honey in warm water can expedite your recovery from a cough.
• Ginger and garlic: Garlic and ginger contain antibacterial properties essential for fighting off infections in the body. You can consume garlic by simply adding it to your meals, and ginger makes a very good addition to your hot tea.
• Soups: Hot soups offer comfort and warmth to the body, aid in hydration, clear congestion in the nose or throat, and provide relief from congestion when you add spices like black pepper in moderation. Adding vegetables to a soup can also supply essential nutrients to the body.

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