Eating healthy food is one way to increase immunity. This is important to fortify our bodies in the midst of a Corona or Covid-19 virus pandemic. Nutrition in healthy food can help the body to stay in shape and maximize organ work. Foods that can increase the body’s immunity are foods that contain vitamins C, B6, E. For children aged 1-3 years, the need for vitamins C and E are also very important to increase the immune system.
One way is to provide formula milk that has complete nutrition. Then minerals like zinc can help maintain the body’s ability to make new cells and enzymes, process carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food, also to increase the speed of healing muscles and wounds. Food ingredients that contain nutrients above are vegetables, fruits, sea fish, and spices.
Strengthening the immune system does not cure any disease, but having strong defenses makes the body prepared and able to recover faster. The key to a strong immune system is to maintain a balanced diet throughout the year that provides the necessary nutrients.
What is the immune system?
The immune system is the Ministry of Defense of our body. This system depends on the armies that defend us from invasions, that is, from infections and germs. And it also works as police functions in the country. It identifies every one of our cells. And if any foreign cells that look like suspicious will enter in our body, then our immune system separate such harmful cell and take the necessary action. The proper functioning of this system, it distinguishes healthy from diseased tissue. Sometimes, unfortunately, when our immune system is suppressed, such as in the case of people suffering from chronic and acute diseases. This system won’t function properly and it will kill our healthy cells.
Types of immunity
There are two types of immunity in our bodies. They are:
1. Innate immunity
It is the immune system with which we are born. It is staggered in successive barriers that stop external threats. If one fails, there is another such as The skin; saliva enzymes; acids from the digestive system; cough, when it is a reflex act that expels foreign substances or bodies. It is not a specific immunity, but rather a general one. If a pathogen manages to enter in our body, then another type of immunity is activated, much more sophisticated: the acquired one.
2. Acquired immunity
It is developing and strengthening throughout life. For example, through external aids, such as vaccines. Or by naturally creating antibodies, exposing ourselves to pathogens during our growth. As happens with children who, in their games, come into contact with microbes on the ground or with their classmates at daycare or school. This system targets specific threats. It is very powerful, so the idea is that its power is directed as accurately as possible to the aggressor.
There is a type of acquired immunity called passive, and it has an expiration date. For example, a baby receives antibodies from his mother, through the placenta and breast milk, that protects him from some infections during the first years of his life. However, as he grows, this passive immunity will be gone and he will develop the acquired immunity.
Necessary nutrients to increase your immunity
The most important nutrients that are required for our body to strengthen or immunity are as follows:
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C has a great antioxidant effect and fights free radicals. It also helps take advantage of iron from other foods and promotes the proper functioning of blood vessels. In addition, it strengthens bones and teeth and contributes to healthy skin. We find vitamin C in citrus foods such as oranges, lemon, strawberries, and kiwi, as well as in vegetables. Such as broccoli, parsley, or pepper, one of the vegetables richest in this vitamin.
The doses of vitamins that must be taken vary according to each person, since factors such as age and origin or possible diseases, among many others, intervene. In general, in normal situations, the recommended doses are around 500 mg a day of vitamin C. This amount is equivalent, for example, to all the vitamin C found in 5 oranges. In special situations in which we want to strengthen the immune system, such as the current one, it is recommended to increase the dose.
For a healthy adult person, this dose could be up to 2,000 mg daily, which is equivalent to eating 20 oranges a day. Since ingesting such large amounts is not healthy, specialists recommend resorting to vitamin supplements. In this case, 4 capsules of 500 mg of vitamin C should be taken daily, for a maximum of one or two months.
2. Vitamin D
This vitamin also plays an important role in modulating the immune response, since it participates directly in the process of cell differentiation and the growth of cells and their proper functioning. Its role is also essential to keep calcium and phosphorus balanced and therefore having little vitamin D can make us more prone to bone damage. The main source of vitamin D is the sun, but it is also important to obtain it through food and supplements.
The fatty acids in fish, such as salmon, are rich in vitamin D. The recommended daily dose of vitamin D is difficult to establish generically since it depends a lot on age, the blood system, and also on whether the person lives in a sunny country or not. To quickly strengthen the immune system, professionals recommend a daily consumption of 2 capsules of vitamin D (1,600 IU each) for one or two months, depending on each person. This would be equivalent to eating 1.2 kg of salmon a day.
3. Vitamin A
Among its other functions, vitamin A participates in the creation of membranes that protect from infections in different organs of the body, such as in the lungs or digestive tract. In addition, it is good for eyesight and strengthens the skin, nails, hair, and tooth enamel. We find this vitamin both in foods of animal origin, such as beef liver, or other mammals. And of vegetable origin, in vegetables such as carrots, spinach, or sweet potatoes.
To consume the equivalent of a vitamin A dose of 25,000 IU per day, which is the recommendation of the experts to strengthen the defenses between 1 and 2 months. We would have to eat up to 4 kg of carrots. However, in normal situations and in the case of a healthy person without any deficiency in this vitamin, with about 3,000 IU a day would be enough.
4. Vitamin E
Like many other vitamins, vitamin E has a great antioxidant effect that makes it necessary for strengthening the immune system. It is essential in the fight against free radicals to protect cells and thus fight infections. Most nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or peanuts, are rich in this vitamin, as are some vegetable oils and sunflower seeds. Under normal circumstances, it is advisable to make sure that we consume around 15 mg of this vitamin a day.
Every 100 grams of these seeds contain up to 35 mg of vitamin E, so a handful a day would suffice. To obtain the recommended doses when the goal is to drastically raise the defenses (800 mg of this vitamin per day), you would have to consume 2.3 kg of sunflower seeds. It is important to consult a specialist before consuming vitamin E supplements, as certain chemical reactions can occur if you are taking other medications.
5. Zinc
This mineral plays one of the main roles in the metabolism process and also performs functions in tissue and cell repair. Therefore, it is highly recommended in postoperative periods and also to strengthen defenses. It is also often recommended to increase your consumption in winter to prevent colds. According to the European Food Safety Authority, an adult person needs between 8 and 14 mg of zinc a day.
However, in exceptional situations in which it is necessary to strengthen the system, the recommendation would be to consume 50 mg of zinc daily. Although the idea is to maintain a diet rich in vitamins and minerals throughout the year, it is advisable to resort to supplements when we have a deficiency of some nutrient. And also in periods when the body must be more prepared to combat diseases, such as in winter or in cases of epidemics.
6. Complex B vitamins
The complex of vitamins of group B is also included in the list of the best vitamins for the immune system. For example, vitamin B12 acts as an immune enhancer due to its ability to fight germs. Researchers have shown that vitamin B12 is mainly found in animals, not in plants, so it’s difficult for vegetarians to get enough of this vitamin with food. Along with B12, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is vital for promoting biochemical reactions in the immune system.
For example, some enzymatic reactions that occur in the tryptophan-kynurenine pathway are dependent on vitamin B6. In addition, some studies also indicate that vitamin B6 has the ability to reduce inflammation in various conditions. You can replenish the daily norm of vitamins with the help of cereals, meat, eggs, potatoes, pasta, nuts, and liver.
How to increase your immunity in the midst of this COVID 19 pandemic?
When it comes to fighting coronaviruses, precautions like washing your hands and avoiding those who may be sick are key factors. But WHO also suggested that boosting the immune system can also give you a head start in staying healthy. Here are the ways by which you can increase the immunity of your body:
1. Social distance
Because older people have a harder time controlling a viral infection, social estrangement can become a matter of life and death for them. And in general, keeping a meter and a half as a safe distance is an effective way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Covid-19 is caused by a respiratory pathogen that is spread mainly in two ways. One is a cough, which spreads the saliva drops through the air. Some can float about a meter before drying.
And they can be inhaled and enter the lungs. And according to a study by Stanton Glantz of the University of California, the coronavirus also travels in cigarette and vape smoke. Furthermore, smoke appears to weaken the smoker’s own defenses. It should be added that there is a risk that the virus will contaminate the surfaces that the infected person has touched or on which they have coughed. This is why it is so important to wash your hands with soap frequently.
And some recommend not using recyclable bags when shopping while the pandemic lasts, or disinfecting them before putting them in the house. As for plastic bags, they should only be used once before disposing of them.
2. Stay active
Exercising is a powerful way to boost the immune system. Exercise makes the body’s antibodies and white blood cells circulate faster, which means they can detect and target viruses faster. Staying active in this way also lowers stress hormones, reducing the chances of getting sick. The key to exercising properly, however, is to do it in moderate quantity. Like many other things, doing too much can also put so much stress on the body that it weakens your immune system.
3. Eat smart
Find the variety in your diet. People whose diets are low in iron, selenium, vitamins A, C, and D and many of the B vitamins have fewer white blood cells, which are the first line of defense for our immune system against disease. And the few white blood cells they have may be less active. To ensure you’re getting what you need, try to consume as many types and colors of fruits and vegetables as you can, along with whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and healthy oils.
4. Consume alcohol only in moderate amounts
While a small amount of alcohol appears to enhance the immune response, too much turns off genes that help us defend ourselves from microbes and turns on genes that make us vulnerable.
5. Don’t take huge doses of supplements
High doses of supplements like vitamin A, iron, and others can actually affect the immune system. For example, for most adults, more than 400 micrograms per day of folate, or vitamin B, can affect natural killer cells. And while we may have some difficulty getting enough zinc from our diets (as well as trouble absorbing it properly as we age) 100 milligrams or more of this element a day can weaken the immune system.
6. Sleep well
Getting enough sleep seems to help our immune systems fight viruses, according to research led by Dr. Sheldon Cohen, director of the Laboratory for the Study of Stress, Immunity, and Disease at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. When you’re sleep-deprived, the body produces stress hormones like cortisol to keep you awake and alert, which can suppress your immune system.
People who sleep eight hours have higher levels of T cells than those who sleep less than eight hours, according to a study from 2019. Try to sleep at least seven hours a night because a study found that people who did so were four times less likely to get a cold than those who slept less than six.
7. Expand vegetable sources
Eating many vegetable sources such as vegetables, nuts, seeds, fruits that are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber can help reduce the risk of infection.
8.Consumption of healthy fats
Healthy fats such as omega 3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that help the body fight dangerous diseases caused by bacteria and viruses.
9. Fermented food
Immune is closely related to digestive health. Our digestive tract contains probiotics which can be increased by consuming fermented foods such as yogurt. Eating fermented foods can strengthen the body’s immunity by helping to identify harmful microorganisms.
10. Reduce consumption of sugar
Excessive sugar consumption can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other health conditions that endanger the body’s immunity. To reduce the risk of chronic health problems, it is very appropriate to reduce your sugar consumption.
11. Hydration
Not enough fluid intake can cause your overall health and performance to decrease. Dehydration or lack of fluids can increase the risk of disease.
12. Manage stress
Managing Stress and anxiety can increase your body’s immunity. Stress increases inflammation and disrupts hormonal balance and immune cell function in the long run. You can do stress relief activities such as sports, drawing, or meditation.
Fresh fruit juice which can increase your immunity
Immunity has an important role in one’s health. There are many ways to increase body immunity, one of them by consuming the following fresh fruit juice. There are times when our body’s immune system decreases, making us vulnerable to diseases such as colds and now COVID 19. You have heard the d through the news that mostly elderlies and people suffering from chronic diseases have been the victims of COVID 19.
This is because their immune system is compromised or low because of these diseases. The immune system is a protective system of the body that actively filters cells every day that are useful for the body and cells that have the potential to cause disease. So that the body’s immune system remains in optimal condition, we must meet the body’s nutritional needs.
Fortunately, the way to maintain the body’s immune system and get the nutrients it needs is very easy. We can try to consume healthy juice regularly. Here are the lists of fresh juices that you can consume every day to strengthen your immune system.
1. Orange juice
Citrus juice has long been known to contain vitamin C and antioxidants that can ward off free radicals. So that it is often used as an immunity-enhancing drink and also a mouth ulcer treating drug. Drinking orange juice regularly will equip the body with vitamin C which plays an active role in fighting infections. To get maximum efficacy, avoid adding sugar to your juice. One orange contains 116.2 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C for the body.
This certainly can increase endurance. This strong dose of vitamin C will help keep the body healthy to fight the flu and other infections including infections from dangerous viruses such as the coronavirus. Consuming at least one glass of orange juice every morning is one way to keep the body’s immunity awake. In addition, there are also more than 170 different phytonutrients in the citrus fruit and more than 60 flavonoids which have proven anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and strong antioxidant properties.
2. Watermelon juice
Watermelon juice is not only refreshing when taken in the morning or afternoon, but it also has the nutrients needed to boost the immune system. Besides, that watermelon juice can reduce pain in the muscles, a symptom that often arises when attacked by flu and COVID 19. Making juice is also easy. Because it has high water content, watermelon is very easily mixed when we put it in a blender.
3. Kale, spinach, and lettuce juice
This juice has the basic ingredients of vegetables that are a must-try. A combination of kale, spinach, and lettuce will provide vitamins (A, C, B-6), iron, and calcium so that it not only improves the immune system but also improves overall health.
4. Tomato juice
Fresh tomato juice is very effective in boosting the immune system. Besides containing vitamin C, tomatoes also contain folate which is very good for protecting the body from infection. Regular consumption of tomato juice increases the concentration of carotenes in all cells of the body.
5. Tomato juice, kale, and celery
If you want to drink a juice that is richer in nutrition, you can try this recipe, which combines tomatoes, kale, and celery. The content of this juice will provide vitamins A and C, magnesium, potassium, iron, and also vegetable fat. In addition to boosting the immune system, this mixed juice will also give us protection from inflammation.
6. Carrot juice, oranges, and apples
Unlike the combination of juices mentioned above which has a green color with vegetables as the main ingredient, this orange-colored juice uses apples and oranges as its main ingredients. The combination of carrots, apples, and oranges will protect against colds and fevers.
Nutrients obtained from this healthy juice are vitamins A, B-6, and C as well as potassium, and folic acid. This combination of fruits is perfect to help protect the body from a variety of viral diseases and fight infections. To make it, take a dose of 1: 1: 1. You can also add pepper to enhance the taste even though it sounds unique.
7. Beet juice, turmeric, ginger
Turmeric and ginger have long been known as a traditional medicine to treat coughs and colds. When combined with beets, we can get juice with high anti-inflammatory properties. You can be free from colds and coughs. One key to keeping the body from getting colds and fevers is by increasing the body’s immune system. The good news is we can improve the immune system by consuming healthy juice. To process, it only requires a juicer or blender. Consume regularly for maximum results.
8. Carrot juice
Apart from consuming drinks from fruit and herbs, another way to support the immune system is with vegetables. Carrot juice, for example, has also been shown to be effective in boosting your immunity. Carrots are known to be rich in beta-carotene which is an antioxidant that is converted into vitamin A in the body. Antioxidants help ward off free radicals in the body that can cause cell damage, contribute to skin aging and health problems. Antioxidants in carrots also have a supporting role in helping to fight viruses and allergies.
9. Strawberry and Mango
Drinking a combination of strawberry and mango orange juice is a healthy way to satisfy your desires. This juice can also be made from frozen fruits that have the same nutrients but are still fresh. Nutrients contained in this fruit juice combination include vitamins A, C, and E. Then there are also iron and folate. Strawberry and mango fruit juices can be used as ideas for fresh and healthy drinks.
10. Strawberry and Kiwi
Strawberry and kiwi are other alternatives for healthy drinks that contain vitamin C that can help maintain endurance. In addition to vitamin C, other ingredients contained in this fruit juice combination include vitamins A, B6, magnesium, zinc, to folate. In addition, you can also mix it with yogurt which is a good source of magnesium and probiotics that can help cells maintain an antimicrobial barrier.
11. Lemon juice
Lemon is one of the most affordable types of fruit, and it has miraculous health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that strengthen the immune system. Although it has a sour taste, lemon has an alkaline effect, which is why it is also great for people who have increased levels of stomach acid. Its acidity (pH value) stimulates the development of healthy bacteria in the body and protects it from the development of viruses and harmful bacteria. You can drink lemon freshly squeezed, you can add it to tea, instead of vinegar in a salad, when cooking… Be creative.
12. Red wine neutralizes foreign bodies in the body
When consumed in controlled amounts, red wine can act as an excellent stimulant to strengthen the immune system . Wine helps kill foreign bodies and certain dangerous bacteria in the body. A glass of red wine daily strengthens immunity and protects the body from cold, fever, and stomach disorders. However, you should be careful because too much consumption can damage the liver and destroy the body’s immune system, so moderation is necessary.
13. Juice of pink grapefruit, lemon, beetroot, and carrot
Pink grapefruit and lemon will give you your daily vitamin C intake. Beetroot is known to cleanse the body, primarily the liver and blood, and filter out toxins responsible for common illnesses like the common cold and the flu. It is also very rich in antioxidants and this makes it the perfect ingredient for strengthening the immune system. Finally, the carrot thanks to its high content of vitamin A and antioxidants fights against heart and lung diseases.
14. Juice of cucumber, spinach, kale, and parsley
Spinach which we already know as being rich in iron is also provided with many vitamins of the group, in particular in B9 (folic acids), which makes it very good for the morale. Spinach is also made up of folate, potassium, and sodium which promote blood flow and therefore help fight heart disease.
Kale is rich in flavonoids whose antioxidant properties promote immune defenses. Finally, parsley is extremely good for the flow of blood and therefore to nourishes the body with oxygen.
15. Juice of pineapple, turmeric, lemon, ginger, and orange
This juice overflowing with vitamin C has immunostimulatory and antibacterial properties thanks to its composition based on pineapple. Turmeric is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and is very rich in antioxidants. Finally ginger mainly fights against digestive problems but also against infections and fatigue.
16. Grapefruit
Vitamin C in grapefruit contains antioxidants that can protect your body’s cells from substances that damage the body. Vitamin C deficiency can cause delayed wound healing, the body’s inability to fight infection, and impaired body’s immune response. Meanwhile, consuming grapefruit juice can be sufficient for your daily intake of vitamin C.
17. Cabbage, tomatoes, and celery
Cabbage is a staple for making green juice. Tomatoes and celery can reduce the aroma produced from cabbage. By drinking this juice can meet the daily needs of vitamin A and improve your vision.
18. Strawberry juice
The next immune-enhancing drink is strawberry juice. Strawberry juice has many benefits for the body. Strawberries contain vitamin C, calcium, folate, and many others. Well, this juice is beneficial for heart health, skin health, reducing inflammation of internal organs, and increasing immunity.
19. Green Coconut Water
Green coconut water which feels very fresh also has benefits for increasing immunity. Green coconut water has calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and others that can prevent dehydration, increase the body’s electrolytes, and endurance. You can consume it twice a week for maximum results.
20. Pumpkin seed milk
Although pumpkin seed milk is not known to many, it contains many ingredients to strengthen your immune system. Apart from the immune system; There are many benefits such as bone health, relief of menopausal symptoms, urinary health, hair and skin, mental health, prostate health. It contains vitamins A, C, and B-6, magnesium, zinc.
21. Gooseberry/Amala juice
Gooseberry, a power of vitamin C and antioxidants, is the most useful fruit of antiquity that has long been used in Ayurveda. Gooseberry (Amla) has always been known as Ayurvedic medicine and holds an important place in Indian cuisine. Gooseberries are rich in vitamin C and have many health benefits, such as treating throat infections, boosting the immune system, lowering cholesterol, and improving heart health.
Gooseberries not only heal the body from the inside but are also used for hair and other external problems. Gooseberries are full of vitamin C, vitamin A, polyphenols, alkaloids, and flavonoids and are one of the strongest natural immune boosters. In Ayurveda, gooseberry juice is known to increase white blood cells. White blood cells are the defense of our immune system. They attack our blood from entering foreign bodies and protect the body from disease.
Gooseberries are rich in fiber and contain 80% water. These rich fibers facilitate the movement of the intestine in our body and help in the secretion of digestive juices. It also prevents constipation and other gastrointestinal disorders in our bodies. It also takes the health of the kidneys.
22. Turnip juice
Root herds contain starch and pectins. Turnip contains glucose, fructose and sucrose, xylose, and Vitamin C. There are carotene and B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Turnips also contain the trace elements of iron, copper, manganese, zinc, and others. It also contains sterols, including beta-sitosterol, which has a preventive and therapeutic effect on atherosclerosis.
23. Mango juice
Mango contains some nutrients such as fructose, sucrose, maltose, glucose, xylose, vitamins B1 B2 B5 B6 B9 E, D, and C. Mango also consists of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and 12 amino acids. The orange-yellow color of the fruit comes from the carotene which is 5 times more than mandarins. Ripe mango juice is recommended for use as a vitamin complex, which increases the body’s resistance, improves immunity, and helps in cardiovascular disease. Just be aware that the juice of ripe fruits (mainly pulp), as used in large quantities leads to constipation, allergic reactions (urticaria), fever.
24. Pear juice
Pear juice contains carbohydrates, organic acids, tannins, vitamins – preferably C, P, carotene. Of the trace elements contained in pears, the juice is vanadium, molybdenum, nickel, fluorine, iodine, etc. Early ripening varieties are rich in manganese, and Iron. Pear juice is a valuable source of organic zinc. Pear juice is useful for people suffering from obesity, as it regulates digestion, antiseptic, antibacterial, and analgesic action. Pears have tonic properties. It will strengthen the heart, improve mood, relieve stress. There are no restrictions on pear juice.
25. Parsley juice
Parsley is extremely rich in useful substances. As for the content of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), it exceeds many fruits and vegetables. 100 g of shoots of young green parsley contains about two daily allowances of vitamin C. This is almost four times more than in lemons. As per carotene content, parsley is not inferior. 100 g of parsley contains two daily provitamins A. In addition, parsley contains vitamins B1 B2 folic acid, potassium, magnesium, iron salts, enzymes, including insulin, which regulates glucose metabolism.
Parsley juice, which is obtained from both its stems and roots, has the properties necessary for the exchange of oxygen and to maintain the normal function of the adrenal glands and thyroid gland. In parsley micro and macronutrients are found in such a ratio that strengthens the walls of blood vessels, especially capillaries and arteries. Parsley juice is very useful in diseases of the eye and optic nerve, cataracts, and conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers. It also helps restore visual acuity. For this purpose, it is often drunk with carrot juice in a ratio of 1: 3.
26. Cucumber juice
Cucumber is 97% water and minerals make up the remaining 3%. Of these contain 40% potassium, 10% sodium, 75% calcium, 20% phosphorus and 7% chlorine and sulfur. It also contains vitamins A, group B, PP, S. Tartaric acid, prevents the process of forming fat from carbohydrates, which is why nutritionists recommend including fresh cucumbers and cucumber juice in wellness programs for weight loss.
The high potassium content of cucumbers makes it valuable for normalizing blood pressure. Cucumbers have an excellent diuretic effect and are recommended for edema caused by cardiovascular disease, as well as inflammation of the bladder. Cucumber juice can be useful in preventing heart attacks. It calms and strengthens the nervous system, prevents atherosclerosis, and improves memory. For this, you can consume up to 100 ml of pure cucumber juice.
Its effect is enhanced in combination with other juices: tomato and garlic (in proportions 20: 20: 1), black currant, grapefruit, and apple (2: 2: 1: 1). Cucumber juice increases peristalsis, promotes the secretion of cholesterol. Due to its iodine content, and digestible form, the juice helps prevent hyperthyroidism.
Tea to strengthen your immunity
Not only juice but hot drinks like tea also helps to increase our immunity. Such as:
1. Raspberry leaf tea to protect the immune system
It is very popular among the people as an effective natural remedy and preventive measure for the protection of the immune system. It tastes similar to black tea. It is rich in minerals and vitamins. It also contains tannin, which improves the work of the bile and thus protects the immune system.
You can drink it every day because it gives energy to the whole body and not just the immune system. Pour one teaspoon of raspberry leaves with 200 ml of boiling water. Leave to stand for 10 minutes and drain. Drink one cup of tea 2-3 times a day.
2. Lemon and cayenne pepper tea for immunity
An exotic winning combination. By consuming this type of tea, your immunity will be strengthened more than ever. It is a kind of vitamin bomb and a drink for detoxifying the body. It will help the toxins, circulating through your body, finally, come out. It is recommended for both healthy and sick people because it will improve your metabolism in any case. Pour half a teaspoon of turmeric and a quarter of a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into a cup. Pour boiling water over the spices. Squeeze the juice from one lemon and sprinkle it with a teaspoon of honey. An unusual but effective blend.
3. Ginger tea
Ginger is a great guardian and fighter against a strong cold and the temperature that accompanies it. It is also useful in the prevention of various types of tumors. It can be drunk hot or cold. It affects the nervous system if you drink larger amounts, so be moderate. The limit is half a liter per day. If the first signs of the disease have already appeared, consult the chosen doctor before increasing the dose. Bring the water to a boil, add a tablespoon of ginger root, two cloves, a little cinnamon peel, and grated orange peel. If desired, sweeten with honey. Leave to stand for 15 minutes.
4. Dandelion tea strengthens immunity
Dandelion may not be the first plant that comes to mind when it comes to teas, but it is very useful in fighting bacteria. Chinese tradition relies heavily on dandelion and tea for immunity that can be made from it. The reason for its healing properties lies in the chemical composition of dandelion tea, which is full of substances that help the body get rid of toxins. In this way, the immune system becomes able to fight against all microbes that can cause infection.
In addition to these, dandelion tea contains iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium, vitamins C, A, and D. However, be careful with this tea because it can function as a diuretic, especially if taken in larger quantities, so it can lead to dehydration.
5. Sage
Sage is a good companion in the fight against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. It is suitable for the treatment of various inflammations (tonsils, gums), colds, coughs. Its tea reduces the production of mucus in the respiratory organs during colds. Gargling this tea is an ancient recipe for treating sore throat. Drink it 2 cups a day and in a few days, you will surely feel better.
6. Herbal teas
Herbal teas strengthen the immune system against almost any disease. Especially spicy teas and green tea are very effective in this regard.
7. Apricot and plum tea
Apricot and plum tea are beneficial in this regard as it helps in activating the digestive system, it allows you to stay fit.
Smoothies to increase immunity
There is nothing more effective for strengthening the immune system than consuming as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible. They contain the highest amounts of nutrients that help the body fight viruses and bacteria. Keep your family away from colds, seasonal flu, and the Corona Virus with a daily cocktail of vitamins and minerals. Tasty, colorful, fragrant, with a fine and creamy texture, smoothies are to everyone’s liking, adults and children alike.
Preparing a smoothie involves minimal effort. All you need is a blender and some supplies. For the smoothie to be as complete as possible from a nutritional point of view, it is good for it to include: fruits, vegetables, seeds, soaked nuts, vegetable powders. And even some types of spices and herbs recognized for their antiviral, antibacterial, and inflammatory.
Turmeric, cinnamon, ginger are just a few of them. As a sweetener, opt for honey. This in turn is recognized for its ability to keep away disease-causing microorganisms. Here are the lists of some smoothies that help you to strengthen your immunity in this pandemic:9
1. Smoothie with banana, spinach, and cinnamon
Green leaves are welcome in any smoothie. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, necessary for maintaining the health of the intestinal flora, which in turn contributes to a strong immune system. Ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom have an anti-inflammatory and antiviral in the body, strengthening their defense force. The combination of banana, coconut, cinnamon, and cardamom is ideal for winter. Your smoothie will have a Christmas flavor. The joy will be both of the taste buds and of the organism that receives valuable nutrients.
2. Smoothie with beets and pears
This smoothie will catch your eye with its intense pink color. Beetroot is an extraordinary source of nutrients necessary for the proper functioning of the liver and the elimination of toxins from the body. Pears are alkaline, sweet fruits with a high content of fiber, vitamin C, and copper. Their delicate aroma perfectly balances the concentrated taste of the beets. It is ideal to consume the smoothie immediately after cooking. The more it stays in contact with the air, the more it is prone to oxidation, and the amount of nutrients decreases.
3. Smoothie with green tea and blueberries
Green tea and blueberries are champion foods when it comes to antioxidant content. When they gather their powers, the effects are among the most spectacular.
4. Smoothie with peanut butter and cocoa
This smoothie is truly an innocent pleasure. It is so tasty that it can easily be assimilated into a dessert or a snack. Peanut butter and cocoa content give it a taste very similar to that of a cake, with one very important difference: the smoothie is a boon for your health.
5. Smoothie with citrus fruit
Vitamin C plays a very important role in the body’s immunity. Fights oxidative stress neutralizes free radicals and supports certain functions of cells with a role in defense in the body. Vitamin C cannot be stored, so we must eat foods that contain it to support the proper functioning of the body. In the cold season, we need it more than ever. A smoothie concentrated in vitamin C is an excellent way to ensure your daily intake. Prepare it in the winter months when the citrus fruits are full and have a very good quality.
These are the natural ingredients for you to increase your immunity in this pandemic. With the use of these ingredients, make sure that you increase the immunity and be able to fight against COVID 19.