The 7 Foods That Strengthen Your Immune System

The Covid-19 pandemic has prompted widespread discussion about boosting immunity. As we face the potential onslaught of the Omicron variant and an imminent third wave, it’s crucial to keep our immune system strong. While getting vaccinated is paramount, ensuring our body’s defense mechanism is in top form is our best defense against the deadly coronavirus.

To this end, we must be mindful of what we consume. While it’s common knowledge that eating immune-boosting foods like oranges and broccoli can be beneficial, it’s equally vital to avoid certain foods that can undermine our immune system. A diet low in nutrients, high in processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates can significantly impair our body’s ability to ward off diseases.

You are reading: The 7 Foods That Strengthen Your Immune System

Let’s take a closer look at these seven foods that you should consider eliminating or reducing from your diet to enhance your immunity:

1. Sugar

Sugary foods such as baked items, desserts, and sugary drinks like soft drinks are notorious for increasing the risk of heart problems. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to fat accumulation, exacerbate pre-existing diabetes, promote chronic inflammation, and contribute to weight gain and obesity. Moreover, these sugary delights can be quite addictive.

2. Refined Flours

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Foods processed with refined carbohydrates—such as white flour, white bread, white rice, and refined sugar—can elevate inflammation and oxidative stress, which can harm the immune system. The refining process eliminates essential nutrients and may introduce unhealthy ingredients like salt and sugar, which cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels and increase liver fat production. Opt for nutritious, high-fiber carbohydrate sources to support your immune system.

3. Refined Oils

While consuming cold-pressed oils can protect the heart by reducing bad cholesterol and blood pressure levels, regular consumption of refined oils in everyday cooking can significantly increase the risk of stroke and heart attacks. Refined oils are highly processed and can lead to inflammation and imbalances in bacterial communities, negatively impacting your immune system.

4. Alcohol

While occasional drinks may not harm your immunity, excessive alcohol consumption can be detrimental to your overall health. It raises triglyceride levels—a type of fat in your blood associated with the risk of developing hazardous health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Furthermore, the disruption of circadian rhythms caused by alcohol affects hormone balance, leaving you feeling unwell.

5. Excessive Coffee

While coffee boasts antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties beneficial to health, its acidity can contribute to an overall high acidic level in the body. Excessive caffeine intake can trigger indigestion, bloating, and an upset stomach, which can hamper your immune system. Consider switching to low-caffeine beverages and be mindful of your caffeine intake.

6. Stale Food

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Consuming food beyond its expiration date, especially if it has spoiled, can lead to food poisoning. Symptoms include fever, chills, stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Exercise caution and avoid consuming expired or spoiled food.

7. Processed Meats

Processed meats such as hot dogs, salami, and cured bacon—those that have been cured, smoked, canned, or salted—pose an increased risk of conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers, including bowel and stomach cancers. It’s best to steer clear of processed meats for the sake of your health.

In conclusion, prioritizing a healthy diet is essential for maintaining a robust immune system. By avoiding these seven foods and making nutritious choices, you can ensure your immunity is strong and ready to tackle any challenges that come your way. Here’s to a happy and healthy new year for all!

Also, read: 5 Red Fruits to Pep Up Your Plate and Boost Immunity

Also, read: Covid-19: Ayurvedic Tips for Stronger Immunity and ‘Biological Mask’

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health