Foods that can improve your immune response, prevent viral infections
In winter, we are more vulnerable to illnesses that are caused by viruses including colds, flu and cold sores. More than 200 viruses can cause cold symptoms. There are both allopathic or natural ways to prevent or treat viral infections. However, keeping your immune system strong enough to fight off germs and viruses is the best way to keep your family healthy. Eating nutrient-rich foods can help improve your immunity and help protect you from viral infections.
Here are five foods that can attack viruses as well as improve your immune response.
Cinnamon--Compounds present in cinnamon have antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. Cinnamaldehyde, the compound that gives cinnamon its characteristic flavour and smell, can inhibit the growth of the influenza virus.
Garlic--Garlic is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. It contains powerful compounds—allicin, diallyl trisulfide, and ajoene—that fight viruses, including influenza, rhinovirus, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, HIV, viral pneumonia, and rotavirus. This vegetable is especially effective against viruses if taken raw.
Ginger --For years, ginger has long been used to treat colds and flu. Studies have also shown that it has measurable antiviral benefits.
Green tea--Green tea contains a group of flavonoids called catechins, which can inhibit viral infections by blocking the enzymes that allow it to reproduce.
Shiitake Mushrooms--Shiitake Mushrooms are rich in beta-glucans, antiviral compounds that have been shown to inhibit viral replication and enhance immune function.
Here are five foods that can attack viruses as well as improve your immune response.
Cinnamon--Compounds present in cinnamon have antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. Cinnamaldehyde, the compound that gives cinnamon its characteristic flavour and smell, can inhibit the growth of the influenza virus.
Garlic--Garlic is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal. It contains powerful compounds—allicin, diallyl trisulfide, and ajoene—that fight viruses, including influenza, rhinovirus, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex, HIV, viral pneumonia, and rotavirus. This vegetable is especially effective against viruses if taken raw.
Ginger --For years, ginger has long been used to treat colds and flu. Studies have also shown that it has measurable antiviral benefits.
Green tea--Green tea contains a group of flavonoids called catechins, which can inhibit viral infections by blocking the enzymes that allow it to reproduce.
Shiitake Mushrooms--Shiitake Mushrooms are rich in beta-glucans, antiviral compounds that have been shown to inhibit viral replication and enhance immune function.