While you might want to make the most of the rainy season, the thought of catching infections and flu might turn out to be a deal-breaker. The damp weather makes one susceptible to many diseases which are commonly associated with the monsoon season like cold and flu, throat infections and stomach problems. Therefore it is especially important to load up on home-made food, and superfoods that bolster up your weakened immunity. Superfoods are nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. Turns out that there's more to superfoods than kale and chia seeds. Certain superfoods don't require you to spend a lot of money. Shilpa Arora, Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Practitioner suggests, "A pinch of turmeric in a glass of lukewarm water first thing in the morning especially in this season can work well to build a stronger immunity. Vitamin C rich foods, guavas, and bell peppers of all kinds, vegetables area must. Bone broth is good for a daily dose of immunity boosting minerals.Stay clear of refined foods which causes inflammation. Organic raw honey is a also a good option for any throat infections"
Here are some kitchen ingredients that can boost your immunity -
1.Lemons: Profuse in vitamin C, lemon juice not only boosts immunity but also aids smooth digestion by stimulating the secretion of bile. It is also an excellent liver tonic. Lemon juice on an empty stomach every morning promotes the elimination of toxins and combats fatigue.
2.Turmeric: Turmeric is a great immunity boosting spice which should be included in your daily diet. Nutritionist Meher Rajput of FITPASS explains, "Turmeric's active component 'curcumin' makes it a powerful antioxidant. Add a pinch of turmeric to milk and give it to them before bed time. Adding some saffron (kesar) will further enhance the healing properties of the milk." Shilpa adds, " Black pepper and turmeric tea helps fight infections and diseases.
3.Ginger: Mostly consumed with tea, ginger has proven to be very effective against inflammation. It is known to have excellent detox properties, and also boosts immunity.
4.Nuts: Chomp on crunchy dry fruits and nuts like cashews, almonds and walnuts this monsoons to keep the infections at bay. Nutritionist Meher Rajput also backs the idea of loading up on nuts, "Have them in any form, dry or roasted. Walnuts, almonds, dates and raisins are good sources of vitamins and antioxidants. They are high in protein and sources of good fats which would also ensure that the energy levels of your child are always high."
5.Herbal Tea: Herbal teas can prove to be a great tonic this monsoon. The antioxidants present in herbal tea are helpful in fighting flu. Make a herbal tea of tulsi or basil with a spoonful of honey. Its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make for a great detox drink as well.