You are what you eat, says Mr Yash Birla. According to years of research, your best line of defence against significant chronic diseases like heart disease, obesity, and diabetes is a well-balanced diet rich in healthful foods.

Yet, did you know that the foods you consume can also help you fight off illnesses like the flu? Certain foods are thought to strengthen the immune system. They thus aid the immunological system of your body.

Let’s examine your immune system in more detail, how certain foods affect your body’s capacity to react to dangers, and some foods to boost your immune system. 

What is the immune system?

The immune system protects your body from outside threats. This complex system of organs, tissues, and cells recognises external intruders like the influenza virus. Next, to help you recuperate, your white blood cells launch an automatic, coordinated response.

A body with a strong immune system is better able to fight off illness. If your immune system is weak, you are more likely to get sick. Mr Yash Birla is a health freak and he believes that taking care of your immune system is the most essential thing.

Your immune system is also crucial to battling diseases such as cancer. Actually, immunotherapy is a type of medication that activates your body’s immune system to start eliminating cancerous cells. Given how crucial the immune system is to your health, we must do everything in our power to maintain its strength.

What are superfoods?

The term “superfoods” has been bandied about a lot in recent years to describe everything from the common blueberry to the exotic goji berry. The term “superfood” is a misnomer. The phrase is a marketing slogan for certain meals that are “nutrient-dense,” meaning they have a high concentration of nutrients and minerals that your body may utilise to boost its overall health and fitness.

These foods can improve your health and support your body’s optimal performance. Yet, it’s also crucial to keep in mind that they are unable to treat or stop the disease. 

7 foods to boost your immune system

The following foods are known to strengthen the immune system. Try 1 or all 7 foods to boost your immune system and soon you will see a shift in your body. 

Berries: You can’t go wrong and include these tiny, nutrient-rich sweet snacks in your normal diet with such a vast range to pick from. These small little morsels, which range from indigenous blueberries and blackberries to imported goji or açai, are jam-packed with vitamins and nutrients to give you the boost you need. Enjoy them as a less-sweet but still delicious dessert alternative, in your yoghurt or smoothie, or on your own.

Leafy greens: The high levels of vitamin C, antioxidants, and beta-carotene found in dark vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens are all recognised to aid in the battle against illness. They are advantageous to your digestion, brain, and heart as well.

Nuts and seeds: Many vitamins and minerals (B-6, magnesium, phosphorous, or selenium), as well as nuts like almonds and walnuts and seeds like sunflower, can help control and sustain your immune system. You can add them to salads or eat a few as a nutritious, energising snack, suggests Yash Birla.

Spices: Garlic, ginger, and turmeric are traditional spices that have long been thought to have immune-boosting effects in combatting infection. They also provide flavour to the cuisine. So don’t be afraid to add some spice to your food. 

Citrus fruits: The majority of citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, lemons, and limes, are high in vitamin C, which is thought to enhance your white blood cells and aid in the struggle against infection. Don’t forget to include these tart fruits in your normal diet, whether you choose to eat them whole or pour the juice onto your food.

Brightly coloured vegetables: Brightly coloured vegetables like red peppers offer even higher levels of vitamin C, despite the fact that we typically associate it with citrus fruits. Carrots include beta carotene, which benefits your skin, eyes, and immune system.

Yoghurt: This fermented meal may help your immune system battle sickness thanks to its “live and active cultures” and vitamin D. Choose products without added sugar, and then naturally sweeten them with honey or fruit (like berries, for an additional boost).