There are several steps you can take to avoid getting countless sniffles and colds during the colder months.
Wrapping up when outside and keeping your home warm are essential, but you should also consider the foods you eat to boost your immunity.
Include the following immunity-boosting foods in your diet:
1. Oranges
During the colder months, you should make sure your body has plenty of vitamin C because it helps your body fight infections.
- Because vitamin C cannot be stored by your body, you must consume vitamin C-rich foods on a daily basis. If you don't like oranges, try eating more tomatoes, peas, and peppers, taking a vitamin C supplement, or drinking hot lemon water.
2. Watermelon
Watermelons are difficult to find at this time of year, but they contain citrulline, which helps keep your heart healthy, as well as vitamins A, C, and B6. Their red flesh contains lycopene2, which helps your bones stay strong and your immune system stay balanced.
3. Broccoli
When it comes to getting your five-a-day, broccoli should be a go-to because it's high in nutrients that are good for your gut. It contains a lot of fibre, vitamin C, potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin A3. If possible, eat your broccoli raw rather than cooked, as it is more nutritious this way. Sprouts, kale, and cauliflower are other vegetables that are considered super foods for your immune system.
4. Oysters
If you want to be as healthy as possible, you must ensure that your body has an adequate supply of zinc. You can accomplish this in a variety of ways. You can take a zinc supplement or increase your intake of oysters, eggs, mushrooms, chicken, pumpkin seeds, and cashew nuts. Zinc is required for the production of white blood cells, which allows your body to fight infection, as well as for healthy skin, hair, and nails.
5. Yoghurt
Instead of pouring milk over your cereal in the morning, why not top it with a dollop of yoghurt? Choose yoghurt with 'active' or 'live cultures,' as these help your immune system fight off bad bacteria in your gut. 5. Yogurt also contains vitamin D, which aids in immune system regulation6.
6. Cinnamon
Try sprinkling some cinnamon into your next cup of hot chocolate or cup of tea. You could try it with raw honey or make your own cinnamon rolls with dairy-free cream cheese frosting.
