The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the world by storm. The governments of the countries around the world have restricted the movement of the entire population. The aim is to flatten the curve, which means slowing down the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The deadly virus has infected nearly 7.15 million people in the world and took the lives of more than 400,000 people.
As per studies, people with weaker immune systems are susceptible to contracting the coronavirus infection. To reduce the chance of catching the infection, good hygiene practices such as wearing masks, gloves, frequent handwashes, and sanitizers are recommended.
It is equally important to build a good immune system to keep the infection at bay. Studies suggest that eating certain foods and fruits can help build a stronger immune system.
Here is a list to help you with the recommendations which can boost your immunity:
- Broccoli
This green vegetable is loaded with vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, and E. Also, it has a good amount of minerals, fibre, and other antioxidants. Undoubtedly, Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables you must include in your diet. To keep the nutrients intact in the food, cook as little as possible. You can also just steam the broccoli and have it.
2. Dark chocolate
Here is another reason for you to fall in love with dark chocolate. The cocoa in dark chocolate is loaded with phenolic compounds which can boost our immune system and strengthen our body defence against infections. The antioxidant named theobromine protects the body cells from free radicals. These radicals can damage the body tissues and make the body prone to diseases.
3. Watermelon
Watermelon is a wonder fruit. This fruit is loaded with carotenoids, lycopene, Cucurbitacin E, beta-carotene and VItamin C. All of the above antioxidants can help to boost your immune system and remove the free radicals from the body. The most important point is the large concentration of lycopene which has a number of beneficial properties for health. It reduces respiratory inflammation, and thus prevents infection.
4. Spinach
Spinach is one of the healthiest leafy vegetables you should include in your everyday diet. This is because spinach is rich in Vitamin A, C, and K, numerous antioxidants, and beta carotene, which help in fighting off the infections. This vegetable strengthens your bones, eyesight and immune system. It repels bacteria and viruses, promotes the heart’s health, and always keeps you energized. So, add spinach to your daily diet as you see, there are so many health benefits.
5. Ginger
Ginger is perhaps the most underrated superfood. It possesses a lot of health benefits. Ginger can help decrease sore throat and any type of inflammation in the body. It also helps reduce the risk of heart problems and muscle pain. The bioactive substance named Gingerol in ginger lowers the risk of infections. Fresh ginger is effective against oral bacteria and the RSV virus, which causes respiratory infections.
6. Orange
Who does not love to eat oranges? Well, oranges are loaded with Vitamin C, and it is an essential component to build your immune system. It will help you in fighting off cold and flu infections. Also, the orange peel can give you an effective teeth whitening service at home!
In case you need professional teeth whitening services, the Narrabeen dentists are doing an exceptional job.
7. Green Tea
Green Tea is packed with flavonoids, L-theanine, and most importantly, catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate. These catechins are natural antioxidants that help the body in preventing diseases. Green tea helps prevent coronary heart diseases. It keeps the heart healthy by lowering bad cholesterol and reducing blood clotting. Enjoy green tea as an alternative to black tea or coffee as it contains a minimal amount of caffeine.
8. Almond
Rich in fibre, protein, magnesium, healthy fats and Vitamin E, Almonds help in reducing the blood pressure and the cholesterol level of the body. It is an excellent source of vitamin E. Almonds can be your daily healthy snack. Moreover, almond is known to reduce hunger as it is high in protein and fibre, which increases the feeling of fullness. So, you can easily lower your daily overall calorie intake.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric is a bright yellow coloured spice used in cooking. Turmeric is known for its medicinal properties and has essential bioactive components that are known to prevent oxidative damage in the human body. Turmeric is effective against inflammation as well. It has a high concentration of curcumin which is an immune booster and antiviral.
10. Yogurt
Yogurt is a natural probiotic food and it is a great source of Vitamin D. It can boost digestion and increase metabolism in the body. A good digestive system is key to a good immune system. Look for yogurts that are labelled “live and active cultures”. These cultures stimulate the immune system to fight diseases.
The foods mentioned above can help you build a robust immune system and help you battle the infections during this tough time. Remember that along with a healthy diet, exercise and sleep go hand in hand.
While we are talking about food, the article will be incomplete if we ignore the importance of oral care. Staying healthy in this pandemic situation is of utmost importance. Dental pain can be a serious issue. If you require any emergency dental services, you can contact the Narrabeen dentists. Maintain good oral hygiene, and you can get rid of dental diseases which will positively impact your overall health.