Now in the aftermath of the second wave of COVID, there can’t be a more appropriate time to keep your immunity in check and maintain it. We all have heard of tricks and tips that can help us sail through these difficult times. So, here are some immunity-boosting foods that may come in handy to your daily routine.
Immunity-boosting foods are the ones that support our gut and are our first line of defence against disease and illness- as well as anti-inflammatory foods that contain antioxidants, polyphenols, probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, minerals and vitamins.
Probiotics rich foods are fermented foods like Kimchi, Kraut, Yoghurt, Miso, Tempeh, Kombucha, Sourdough, etc.
Antioxidants, polyphenols, zinc-rich and vitamin C foods are all citrus fruits, berries, red fruits, broccoli and broccoli sprouts, mushrooms, green tea, dark chocolate, organic coffee.
Given our predominantly vegetarian diet, some Immune Boosting Vegetarian Foods are:
Nuts & Seeds: Almonds (soaked overnight), Walnuts, Sunflower seeds, Fennel Seeds.
Fruits: Fresh Berries, Sweet Limes, Kiwi, Guava, Oranges, Papaya, Apple, Pomegranate, Tomato, Amla, Lemon.
Vegetables: Bell Pepper, Spinach, Kale, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Carrots, Beets, Broccoli, Eggplant, Sweet Potato, Moringa, Dill Leaves.
Herbs, Spices, Roots: Basil, Tulsi, Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic, Giloy, Ashwagandha.
Drinks: Coconut water, Barley water, Green tea, freshly prepared fruit juices rich in Vitamins and minerals. Carbonated sugary drinks must be avoided, alcohol and processed foods. Have plenty of fluids.
Probiotic Foods: Curd or Yogurt, Buttermilk, Kefir, Kimchi, Sauerkraut, Kombucha, Carrot Kanji.