As you all have noticed by now, suddenly the temperatures have dipped again in northern India. So with this sudden change in weather and rise in humidity level, possibly the cold and flu will hit back Delhi and NCR. But it does not mean you have to fall sick. Did you know that there are some foods that can help boost your immunity and work to keep you healthy and fit during winters?
In this article, Delhi’s top nutritionist and wellness coach, Avni Kaul shares 5 immunity-boosting foods for flu and cold season. Here they are:
This popular winter vegetable is a rich source of glutamine, which has been found to strengthen the immune system. Try some cabbage in your winter soups and stews, or throw shredded raw cabbage onto your salads or sandwiches. There are various varieties of cabbage in the market such as Cannonball Cabbage, Red Drumhead Cabbage, and Portugal Cabbage to name a few.
Almonds are a fantastic source of vitamin E, another antioxidant accountable for boosting the immune system. Have a handful (1/4 cup) to get at least 50% of your daily suggested amount of vitamin E. They can be consumed anytime during the day.
Considering how rich spinach is in folate, fiber, and antioxidants. You can eat spinach raw in a salad, on sandwiches, and mildly fried in some olive and garlic oil.
Almost everyone in India likes tea. Particularly, green and black tea contain polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants that assist fight disease. In addition, an amino acid that is responsible for an immune boost, L-theanine, is abundant in both black and green tea, and decaf versions have it, too. Drink a few (unsweetened) cups per day and to get some more antioxidants from your tea bags, dip them up and down while they brew.
Both oats and barley contain beta-glucan, a kind of fiber with antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities that has been found to stimulate the immune system. It boosts immunity, increases wound healing, and may help antibiotics work better. With the cooler weather, it is a great time to enjoy a hot bowl of oats for breakfast.
About the author: Avni Kaul is one of the top Nutritionist in Delhi , India, and a wellness coach. She is a certified nutritionist as well as a Diabetes Educator and specializes in weight management, child nutrition, skin and beauty health, thyroid disorder, cardiovascular health, diabetic management, wedding nutrition, sports nutrition, and corporate wellness.
Avni Kaul is a leading Dietitian & Nutritionist in Delhi NCR and the Founder of Nutri Activania. She holds a Master's Degree in Food and Nutrition from the University of Delhi and is a Certified Diabetes Educator from Project Hope and the International Diabetes Federation.
Her extensive experience includes serving as a Leicester Mamma's Ambassador, trained in Lactation Counselling with the NHS, United Kingdom.
Ms. Kaul specializes in key areas such as Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices, Pre- and Post-natal Diets, Fat Loss, Muscle Gain, and Holistic Health and Nutrition.
Nutri Activania, founded by Avni Kaul, a leading Dietitian & Nutritionist in Delhi & NCR. Offers personalized, science-based nutrition guidance for holistic health, wellness, fat loss, and nutrition.