Beverages for strengthening immune system: Tips
Drinks to strengthen immunity (photo: Freepik)
In the cold season, it is more important than ever to support your immune system to reduce the risk of getting sick or to recover as quickly as possible. The best way to strengthen the immune system is through the foods and drinks we consume.
RBC-Ukraine reports, citing the health media Eat This Not That, on beverages that can help boost the immune system.
Water
As the human body is composed of 60-70% water, consuming an adequate amount of it is crucial to support all processes in the body, including the immune system. When the body is dehydrated, it creates a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria and viruses.
Viruses often affect the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and throat. Water helps maintain and moisturize these systems. Water is also an essential component of lymphatic fluid, which carries white blood cells. These cells aid in fighting infections.
Green tea
Green tea is rich in beneficial polyphenols and flavonoids that reduce the risk of developing heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Research published in the journal Molecules has shown that green tea strengthens the immune system due to antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidation and reactive oxygen species.
Kefir
Like yogurt, kefir is rich in beneficial probiotics that help maintain a balanced microbiota in the gastrointestinal tract. The primary bacteria in kefir is Lactobacillus kefiri.
An article in the journal Nutrients reports that kefir has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects on health.
Lemon and ginger tea
Lemon-ginger tea is rich in vitamin C. According to research in the journal Antioxidants, vitamin C has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce negative immune responses.
Ginger contains over 100 biologically active compounds that help combat nausea, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, improve blood lipids, and decrease inflammation.
Orange or grapefruit juice
Vitamin C and folic acid in citrus juices support the integrity of immune barriers and protect immune cells. The bioactive compounds in citrus fruits have anti-inflammatory effects to support immunity.
Orange and grapefruit juices provide 100% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. However, it's important to note that this refers to freshly squeezed juice, not store-bought varieties.
Tomato juice
Tomatoes are also rich in vitamin C and lycopene, which helps reduce inflammation in the body.
Therefore, tomato soup is often recommended during colds or the flu since it contains vitamin C. Similar to citrus juices, tomatoes provide the daily requirement of this vitamin for a person.
Earlier, we discussed how to properly support the immune system to avoid having to boost it.
Also, learn how elevated temperature demonstrates the immune system's functionality.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
