The coronavirus outbreak turned out to be one of the worst contagions witnessed by mankind. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a pandemic and a public health emergency of international concern. Covid-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 (coronavirus) is an acute respiratory illness that may result in severe symptoms and even fatalities in extreme cases. There is no treatment for the disease, but your body is capable of battling the infection itself.
Functions of the Immune System
A strong immune system maintains good health through a myriad of biological processes. It prevents harmful cell damages, ingesting and killing pathogens, recognizing and killing foreign elements in the human body, and preventing mutations. The best defense mechanism against coronavirus infection is your immune system.
The immune system plays a key role in combating different kinds of infections and ensuring the body stays healthy and disease-free. In fact, scientific research and publications indicate the central role of a healthy immune system in preventing the severity of symptoms and deaths amongst Covid-19 patients.
Now, you might be asking yourself, how can you strengthen your immune systems? Is there a medically recommended procedure? Are there any specific diets or supplements?
Foods to Improve Immunity
Ayurveda emphasizes improving diet to improve the immune system and in turn overall health. There are several foods that are known to improve the functioning of the immune system. By incorporating these food items into your diet you can prevent harmful diseases and infections. These food items are not just limited to preventing ailments but also improving overall health.
Turmeric
Used extensively in Ayurveda and alternative medicine this yellow herb contains 300 plus nutrients and compounds that are scientifically known to enhance immunity. Turmeric works as an antioxidant that detoxifies the body, aids digestion, reduces inflammation, purifies the blood and regulates blood sugar levels.
Ginger
Ginger is the root of the flowering plant which is mostly found in Southeast Asia and India. The medicinal properties of ginger have been identified and utilized in Ayurveda since times immemorial. Ginger contains a wide range of vitamins and nutritive minerals that optimize and improve cellular activity, aid cardiovascular activity, reduce pulmonary congestion and boost immunity.
Garlic
Garlic is an essential ingredient in almost all cuisines across the globe. It consists of a fresh bulb of the Allium sativum plant and is known as a strong antioxidant and antibacterial. Medical research and studies have proven that garlic improves blood circulation, reduces blockage and improves the elasticity of the aorta.
Honey
Honey is excellent immunity-boosting food, it quickly cures sore throat, reduces hypertension, high blood sugar, and aids digestion. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and is one of the best replacements for sugar.
Green Tea
You might have heard is good for weight loss but it is extremely helpful in detoxifying the body and improving metabolism. When consumed regularly in fixed amounts it is known to regulate blood sugar, improve brain function, and enhance endocrine activity which contributes extensively to good immunity.
The link between Physical Fitness and Strong Immunity
Strengthening immunity requires not just dietary changes but lifestyle changes as well. A sedentary routine suppresses the natural immune response and increases the probability of getting sick. The first step is to improve your immune system is to get engaged in moderate exercise. You can choose your favorite regime, brisk walking, running, Zumba, aerobics, or your favorite sport.
Some of the best sports options that can be enjoyed at home are as follows-
- Backyard Football
- Table Tennis
- Hoopla Hooping
- Trampolining
Yoga: The Ultimate Immunity Booster
Ancient yogis dwelled in the Himalayas and lived disease-free lives for hundreds of years. Not just mythically but scientifically yoga is proven to reduce stress, optimize endocrine activity, aid digestion, respiration, and circulation. Different yoga asana targets different parts and systems of the body and if practiced correctly can greatly improve the immune system of the body. You can simply practice basic asana like pranayama that is known to cure several ailments and live a healthier life.
In a Nutshell
Dietary management, exercising and a stress-free lifestyle are some of the major elements that boost immunity, prevent diseases, improve mental health and enhance the quality of life so that you can bring out the best with you.
