The adage that “you are what you eat” has perhaps never held truer than it does today, when health matters permeate virtually every conversation.
The adage that “you are what you eat” has perhaps never held truer than it does today, when health matters permeate virtually every conversation. In addition to the already known benefits of a healthy diet, one issue attracts attention in these pandemic times – strengthening the body’s immunity. Of course, there are no magic formulas, but some foods can boost the immune system and help prevent disease, including Covid-19. Experts explain that a balanced diet helps prepare the body for different types of infections. There is no food that works against a certain health problem but a boosted immunity takes care of different bacteria and viruses. Therefore, the ideal is to invest in foods with antioxidant properties (vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, zinc, vitamin A, lycopene, resveratrol, among others) and anti-inflammatory, omega 3 and probiotic properties. Maintaining good hydration is also essential. To stay away from the hospital or pharmacy, it is worth including the following items in your next shopping list:
natural yoghurt
: Why: they are sources of vitamin A and enriched with probiotics;
Flax seed
Why: It’s a source of omega 3, isoflavones and fiber
Garlic
Why: It has antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hypotensive action.
Honey
Why: it is anti-inflammatory, improves immunology, expectorant, source of energy and prebiotics that promote intestinal functioning and stimulate the proliferation of beneficial intestinal bacteria.
Ginger
Why: It is a source of vitamin C and B6 (pyridoxine) and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Dark green vegetables – spinach, chard, broccoli, watercress, kale
Because: they are sources of fibre, beta-carotene, iron and folic acid;
Red fruits and vegetables – strawberry, tomato, cherry, guava
Why: They are excellent sources of vitamin C, lycopene, anthocyanins and ellagic acid, as well as antioxidant, cardioprotective and immune system stimulating properties;
Orange fruits and vegetables – papaya, carrot, apricot
Why: They act in the maintenance of tissue, skin and hair, increase immunity and antioxidant defence. They are rich in carotenoid pigments, vitamin A and vitamin C.
Purple foods (purple grapes, prunes, blueberries, jabuticaba)
Why: they have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal and cardioprotective properties;
Walnuts and Brazil nuts
Because: they are sources of selenium, vitamin E, omega 3.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
