What food helps in boosting immunity?

Question

Hello Doctor,

I am a 35-year-old married woman. I take care of both my professional work and all household chores. The climate here keeps changing from summer to winter. How can I help my body adapt to sudden climatic changes? What kinds of foods can help boost my immunity and improve my overall health? Please help.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Yes, changing weather can affect our body, as it constantly tries to maintain internal temperature. During this adjustment, inflammation in the body may increase.

Here are some immunity-boosting tips to help protect your body, especially during the winter season:

Food safety tips:

Avoid consumption of raw meats, raw eggs, and also raw vegetables, fruits, or salads when eating outside.
At home, always wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly using clean water and, optionally, vinegar to remove contaminants.

Nutritional support for immunity:

Include plenty of Vitamin C-rich foods, which have antioxidant properties. Examples include Indian gooseberry (Amla), colored bell peppers, citrus fruits, guava, and broccoli.
Consume generous amounts of ginger and garlic in the form of soups or teas. These natural ingredients possess antiviral properties. ginger–turmeric water or tea is a great daily option. Raw garlic or ginger with honey can also soothe a sore throat.
Turmeric, whether fresh or dry, contains curcumin (a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compound). It can be consumed as turmeric milk or tea, ideally with a pinch of black pepper to enhance absorption.
A herbal concoction made by boiling tulsi (Holy basil), ginger, peppercorns, and cloves in water, and then adding pure honey, is a good traditional remedy to support immune health.

Gut health and probiotics: Include fermented foods such as homemade curd, kimchi, and pickled vegetables. These are natural sources of probiotics, which help strengthen gut flora and support immune function.

Lifestyle and hydration:

Cut down on foods and drinks that are high in sugar, as excessive sugar can impair your body's immune response.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, detox waters, warm soups, and traditional Indian preparations such as rasam. Adequate hydration supports healthy metabolism and helps flush out toxins.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.