The Coronavirus pandemic made us realize the importance of our immune system. Post-Covid, an increasing number of people have become more conscious about their body’s immunity and are interested in making the necessary changes in their diet and lifestyle to boost immune system.
A healthy diet and exercise play a crucial role in strengthening the immunity; moreover, including spices in your diet can provide an added boost to the immune system. Spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon are particularly helpful in fighting off infections. These spices aren’t just useful for adding flavor and aroma to the dishes; they also supply the body with the much-needed antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins that strengthen the body’s natural defense mechanism.
3 Important and easily available spices that boost immune system
1. Ginger:
A review in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine states that ginger contains gingerol and shogaol. These are anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-reducing), and antioxidant compounds.
This warm spice helps the body fight infections and activates the body’s immune cells. Ginger is traditionally used to treat cough, common cold, nausea, vomiting, and headache. It also aids in digestion.
This is not all; a study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology states that fresh ginger prevents the formation of plague by human respiratory syncytial virus, which is a common virus that attacks the respiratory system and causes cold-like symptoms.
2. Garlic:
Garlic contains allicin in high levels. This compound gives garlic antiviral and antimicrobial properties. You may have observed that while chopping or crushing garlic, the spice exudes a strong aroma. This is due to the presence of allicin in it.
3. Cinnamon:
Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, giving it an anti-inflammatory property that helps to boost immune system. Moreover, this warm spice helps to regulate levels of blood sugar and promotes general health.
Cinnamon also has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. The chief active compound called e-cinnamaldehyde present in this spice renders the anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition to the above spices, turmeric deserves a mention here due to its active compound called curcumin, which gives it antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to incorporate the spices in your diet?
- Brew some fresh ginger tea every morning for an immunity boost.
- Use powdered cinnamon and sprinkle over your tea or coffee or warm milk.
- Use freshly chopped garlic in your main course recipes to give your immunity an added boost.
- Sip hot turmeric milk at night or use this spice in your meal recipes.
Legacy Dive Maxim is one of the best places to get high quality spices to boost immune system. As the colder months approach, stock your kitchen with these spices now.