Is it cheesy to say that the COVID-19 pandemic has gone viral? Probably. As a consequence, the most searched web query now is how to boost the immune system. Yet, there is no miracle cure that can do that. Keep yourself safe by practicing the protocols enforced by your respective governments. If you want to keep your immune system strong the proper way, read on.
Ayurvedic herbs that will help boost your immune system Ever heard of Ayurveda? Despite the strong association with yogis and wellness experts obsessed with energy and excrement (seriously!), don’t write it off as bohemian sorcery just yet. Ayurveda is an ancient healing science originating from India, where it is still widely practiced. It is a recognized branch of complementary medicine that promotes preventative measures.
“Balance is the natural order. Imbalance is disorder.”
Catchy, right? Without side-stepping the importance of Western medicine, KALIKA enjoys the teachings of traditional medicine because it is ever-enduring. “Balance” refers to the harmony between our physical, mental and emotional state. Ayurveda looks at health from a holistic and mindful perspective. It teaches us to be conscious and emphasises preventing disease by practising sustainable healthy lifestyle choices.
What does Ayurveda have to do with the immune system?
Our daily choices impact our health and ultimately, our immune system. The interconnectedness of mind and body that Ayurveda presses on is even known in modern medicine. For example, we know that mental health can affect your immune system. You can catch the cold when it’s flu season, but also when you’re overworked, sleep deprived and poorly fed. A strong immune system requires a balance supplemented by healthy habits that are maintained well.
Healthy non-fruit & vegetable foods that keeps the immune system strong
Here at KALIKA, we often highlight the importance of fruits and vegetables in our diets. Today however, let’s incorporate the Ayurvedic principle of holism and focus on the other types of food that promote health. Ayurveda goes back thousands of years and even our ancestors knew that achieving the right balance in life (and on our plates) keeps the immune system strong.
In lieu of the pandemic, it’s been a little harder to get access to fresh greens and fruits. This article contains five foods that should be essential to a healthy diet that can keep your immune system strong, and strengthen it over time. The healthy foods listed here are shelf-stable, so you can stock up without worrying about food waste. Let’s get started!
#1 Nuts
Nuts are a great source of fibre, protein and healthy fats. It’s important to include these fats in your diet as they help make hormones like estrogen and testosterone. They also slow down the absorption of sugar so you don’t get that sugar high when you chug that fruit smoothie.
👉 Roast them and blend on high in your food processor to make creamy nut butter. This is much healthier than store-bought versions as it doesn’t contain any added sugars or oils.
👉 Add different types of nuts into a bowl and swap out your popcorn for a healthy snack.
👉 If you like to bake, add some chopped nuts into breads, scones and muffins.
#2 Seeds
Chia seeds and flaxseeds are a reservoir for omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid we cannot produce and obtain from our diet. It helps make the membrane of our cells, which is important (imagine a house without walls)! Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant and immune booster. Seeds are also great for improving heart health.
👉 Sprinkle it over your morning oats, cereal or muesli.
👉 Soak overnight and blend it into your homemade hummus recipe.
👉 Chop up and toss into salad or nourish bowls.
#3 Spices
Health Benefits of Indonesia's Herbs and Spices The real reason humans have been using spices for thousands of years is not just because it tastes good. It also helps preserve the food because they contain antibacterial properties. Turmeric should be a staple in your household not just for it’s warming flavour and vibrant golden colour, but it is also an anti-inflammatory. Great for after leg day!
👉 Festive tasting Sunday pancakes recipe: Add some cinnamon and nutmeg powder to the batter so it tastes like apple pie.
👉 If you like comforting curries, turmeric pairs incredibly well with coconut milk.
👉 Try experimenting by adding a pinch into your morning coffee for a burst of flavour.
#4 Legumes
Legumes, or “pulses” are one of the most surprisingly nutritious foods that have gained popularity along with veganism. Did you know that besides being an excellent fibre and protein source, legumes contain a host of vitamins and minerals too? They are low in fat and free of cholesterol. Bet you will never look at beans the same way again...
👉 Chili con carne for vegetarians? Try adding red kidney beans, white beans and black beans.
👉 Mung bean soup is a comfort that can be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack or dessert. Needing much less time to soak or cook, this is a quick recipe needing no more than 1 hour to whip up.
👉 Add pre-cooked lentils or chickpeas into salads for extra protein and fibre.
#5 Miso paste
You didn’t think we would talk about immune-healthy food without bringing up probiotics right? Enter miso, a thick paste made from soybeans fermented with salt and a koji starter. Rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, it promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria due to the fermentation process. Introduce yourself to the wondrous taste of umami with miso paste!
👉 Obviously, miso soup! Add some paste into boiling water with some leafy greens and tofu.
👉 Miso can be turned into salad dressings, marinades, glazes, dips and stir-fry flavourings by combining it with simple household ingredients like vinegar, sesame oil, hot sauce, lime etc.
👉 Ran out of tea? Dilute in a cup of boiling water and sip up some flavoursome comfort.
So, to wrap up…
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a boosted immune system. Rather than shopping online for supplements and quick health fixes, try instead to construct a wholesome diet to meet all your needs. No antioxidant rich immune boosting smoothie can kick your flu overnight. But… if you drink that smoothie everyday, then maybe we’re onto something.
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