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Seasonal changes in the immune system is an interesting topic. According to www.drjennamacciochi.com, “During our lifetime we experience an average of 200 colds – that’s 5 years of coughs, congestion, headaches and sore throats. These are caused by a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. The common cold is usually harmless although it might not feel that way at the time.” But our little ones’ immune systems arent as developed to handle the most common bouts of cold and cough. Are their body’s defence system equipped to fight against infections? Have you been looking up on the internet to figure the list of foods to help build your immunity and those of your loved ones?
Untimely rain is a hotspot for a lot of ailments that knock our doors in the form of flu, cold cough and fever. Thus this is the best time to bring those super-power foods into your diet and make the most of the monsoon season.
While it’s important to follow a certain sort of a lifestyle when it comes to acing up your body’s immunity, its equally crucial to consume foods, cereals and other ingredients which will certainly boost your immune system.
If there is one thing that keeps parents of infants and toddlers on their toes is – building immunity! Trying different permutations and combinations of food and kitchen ingredients is something very common across many households. The rainy season is tricky weather for both parents and kids. Also, if you are looking to avoid those doctor visits then look no further.
We understand this and hence present to you five foods that can help in boosting your’s as well as your child’s immunity.
5 Essential foods to help build your immunity. Include these in your family’s diet:
1. Yogurts
All of us know that yogurts are one of the most powerful and nutrient-rich food in our kitchen. It contains probiotics which are super-good for your gut. One bowl of yogurt contains active cultures, which are good for the digestive tract.
You can add yogurt to your diet along with fresh fruits and load it up with chia and flax seeds. It can prove to be a great start to your healthy morning dose and at the same time keep you full for at least good 3-4 hours.
For children- prepare fresh fruit yogurt smoothies to beat their evening hunger pangs:
2. Nuts
As many as 9 out of 10 nuts are an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is great for healthy skin and nails. Alongside they also help in boosting your immunity. Nuts are also super-rich in Vitamin E which helps in keeping the cells healthy and works on their repair as well.
For children- homemade granola bars loaded with the goodness of almonds and walnuts are great snaking options for both parents and children.
3. Mushrooms
Yes mushrooms, you heard it right. Don’t be surprised if we told you that mushrooms are extremely rich in medicinal value. Mushrooms are one of the best vegetables which combat multiple diseases and keeps your immune system strong. While each mushroom has distinct characteristics when it comes to unique properties, as many as 9 out of 10 mushrooms are great antioxidants too.
Cream and mushroom soup is a great hot with both adults and kids and hence can be consumed as an appetizer or as a super-convenient evening snack. If your little one is not a fan of soups, then mushroom fritters or grilled mushroom sandwiches can be a great and healthy option too.
4. Red-Bell Peppers
If there is one vegetable that is an abundant source of Vitamin C- it is red-bell peppers. Most people tend to citrus fruits for their daily dose of Vitamin C. But if you are looking for more options then red-bell pepper might be your best friend.
A healthy red bell-pepper salad bowl with an extra topping of peanuts and some yummy salad dressing is a great recipe for you! For children, cheesy pepper poppers work best.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the most famous cruciferous vegetables and is slowly gaining prominence and popularity in the Indian kitchen as well.
It is one of those vegetables which is an excellent source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Iron, and Potassium too. A very lesser-known fact about broccoli is that it contains as much as 90 % of water. It primarily consists of a chemical that is known to combat free radicals present within a human body. Broccoli added to white sauce pasta served with garlic bread is a hit for both adults and kids.
In case if you’d like to check out healthy recipes to make at home for your little ones, click here!
by Udita Saklani
