With the winters coming close to covering the world in a chill blanket, getting your immunity fortified is quite essential since chances of flu and other viral fevers increase tenfold during the changing seasons. While the cosy warm blankets offer much-needed physical warmth, your immune system too needs to be bolstered before the winter.

Immunity-boosting foods can be the perfect tool in your arsenal to fortify your immunity. Here are the top 5 to include in your diet.

Garlic

Garlic not only works as a flavour booster in your meals but also can help boost your immunity. The pungent aroma and unique taste are just a mere prelude to the wealth of health benefits it offers. Rich in allicin, garlic has high antibacterial and antiviral properties that can shield you from any winter ailments.

Citric fruits

A potent source of vitamin C and fibre, citric fruits, with their zesty flavour can take centre stage to safeguard your health in the winter. Also a rich source of antioxidants, fruits like oranges, limes and grapefruits help with the production of white blood cells in the body, which can help your body easily fend off the flu and common colds.

Ginger

Ginger is a superfood that can elevate flavours and offer fortifying benefits for the immune system. Ginger is highly regarded in the medical community and loved for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help with indigestion and sore throat. This root is going to be your ultimate ally against all your winter woes.

Bell peppers

A kaleidoscopic medley of reds, yellows and greens, bell pepper packs in a serious nutritional punch for the immune system. Beyond their vibrant hues, bell peppers are laden with vitamin C, which helps to produce collagen, which is essential for a resilient immune response and healthy skin. Plus, their abundance of beta-carotene plays a vital role in strengthening the mucous membranes to fight off any invading pathogens.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms offer high levels of nutrients for the immune system. The fungi are a rich source of vitamin D and incorporating them into your diet can not only lend flavourful depth to your meals but also shield your immune defences from the winter chill.

The overture of these foods can all contribute to a culinary masterpiece that not only delights your tastebuds but also sharpens your immune system for the incoming winter month. Let each bite weave a shield of vitality and resilience.

Frequently asked questions

Why do we need to have strong immunity for the winter?

With strong immunity, you are shielded from all the ailments that come during the winter months, like the flu and the common cold.

Are there any medications to strengthen immunity?

There are plenty of vitamin-infused medications to boost immunity. However, it is always wise to consult a healthcare professional before consuming.

Do immunity-boosting foods come with any side effects?

Since these foods are devoid of any unhealthy fats or chemicals, they do not have any side effects.

If I have the flu, can these foods help with the cure?

No, these foods are not cures for any ailments. However, including them in your diet reduces the chances of any ailments happening in the first place.