We all get sick at some point of time. Some of us may get sick during any season, but generally we observe that the number of people getting sick gradually increases during the winter season.
Some people explain this as a result of decline in the intensity of ultraviolet radiations from the sun that kills infectious viruses and bacteria during the sunnier days of the year. Viruses tends to live longer during winter and can get stuck at places like cell phones, door handles, counter tops, etc. Also, another reason for getting sick in winter is the decline in the production of vitamin-D in the body due to lack of direct sunlight. This weakens our immune system, thus making us more susceptible to diseases. Another possible cause could be the dehydrated mucous membranes that makes our body more vulnerable to respiratory tract infections.
Regardless, whether the things mentioned above are myths or realities, flu and cold season make a large number of people sick. There can be many reasons, but this is not the time to discuss them. In fact, this is the time to take action and prevent yourself from such infections. So, how can we do that? Helping us with this, Jillian Michaels suggested some foods that can be effective in boosting immunity and safeguard us against diseases during winter. These are:
1. Raw Honey
Honey is loaded with antioxidants and has anti-microbial properties that can be effective in combatting harmful microorganisms, i.e., bacteria, fungus, virus, etc. Jillian says that raw honey contains pollen and propolis, which gives honey its immunity boosting benefits. You can consume raw honey either directly or by adding it to a cup of tea.
2. Garlic
The most potent ingredient that can help in boosting immunity is garlic, which is rich in allicin, a compound that gives garlic its aroma and can be very effective in protecting us from bacterial and viral infections. It consists of more than hundred sulfuric compounds that help fight infections, mobilize vitamin-D and promote total wellness. It was also used to prevent from gangrene during the two world wars. It can be used in various ways. You can either add it to foods or directly chew its cloves.
3. Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is an effective legit solution to boost immunity and protect yourself from harmful diseases. But, what makes chicken soup so effective? An amino acid called cysteine, which is found in both chicken and its bone broth, makes chicken so effective in boosting immunity. Cysteine found in chicken is similar to acetyl cysteine, a drug that is helpful in fighting off infections. You can make chicken soup at home and add some garlic to it to make it even more effective. However, if you don’t have time for preparing it at home, you can go for the ready-made one, just make sure that it is fresh.
4. Black Tea
Black tea contains the amino acid L-theanine that can be helpful in prevention from a lot of harmful viruses. Also, a study has proven that people who drink more than 5 cups of black tea a day has about 10 times of virus-fighting interferons in body than the people who didn’t. Decaf black tea also contains L-theanine.
5. Ginger
With its natural anti-inflammatory property, ginger works as a natural pain reliever and helps in reducing fever. It contains chemicals known as sesquiterpenes, which can target the common cold causing rhinoviruses. You can simply use by adding it to your cup of black tea. You can also add some raw honey to make it more effective.
