Turmeric has powerful anti–inflammatory effects and is a strong antioxidant. It is a natural way to help boost the immune system by increasing the immune modulating capacity of the body
Since New Year eve, China has reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia from Wuhan associated with seafood, which was later diagnosed to be associated with novel coronavirus. Around 10,000 persons were reported to be infectious which includes 17 healthcare professionals and the casualties have been reported to be over 200 within a month.
While the virus is common in different species of animals, it has now spread to humans through close contacts via respiratory droplets generated through sneezing or coughing. While there is a misconception that the virus only spreads through symptomatic infectants, many such cases have been recorded where the virus has been transmitted through asymptomatic infectants also. It is thus the foremost priority to seek primary prevention through keeping self-hygiene. Always wash your hands with soap or alcohol-based rub and seek immediate medical advice in case of flu-like symptoms for ruling out the condition. Though Indians usually do not prefer to consume under cooked or raw meat/ animal products, still avoid any type of animal product.
Vitamin C as a immunity booster: Vitamin C is an immunity booster. Along with the supplements, it also advisable to do warm saline gargles regularly, because the coronavirus tries to remain in the throat for around two-three days, so if you are cleaning your throat regularly , your things are going to be on a better side. While there are no proven treatment modules available, and hence every possible preventive measure will act as a weapon.
Regular consumption of hot water and green tea is also preferable. Include nuts like almonds, walnuts and seeds like flax and pumpkin in your diet.
It’s a medical proven fact that our immune system is the first line of defence against an alien microorganism entering our body. Stronger your immune system, lesser is the chance of falling ill.
Turmeric: It has powerful anti–inflammatory effects and is very strong antioxidant. Turmeric is a natural way to help boost the immune system by increasing the immune modulating capacity of the body.
Ginger: Ginger is antibacterial and it helps support the immune system and it can help to prevent nausea and soothe stomach. Ginger helps decreases inflammation, which can help reduce a sore throat.
Garlic: Garlic helps and prevents the severity of illness like the flu and common cold. Garlic contains antioxidants that support the body’s protective mechanisms against oxidative damage. Garlic can fight infectious diseases especially for the elderly or people with dysfunctional immune systems.
Lemon: Lemon is a powerful source of vitamin c that helps build up the immune system. Vitamin C helps in the production of white blood cells and the key to fighting infections.
Spinach: Spinach is packed with abundant nutrients which help build the immune system. It is packed with anti-oxidants including Vitamin C and Vitamin E which increase the infection-fighting ability of our immune system.
Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are not just great in taste but also bundled with immunity boosting vitamins. It comes with our daily requirement of 30 per cent of Vitamin C and 120 per cent of the daily value of Vitamin A. They are fat and cholesterol free with all the vitamins along with healthy portion of fibre.
The writer is Dr Rakesh Chawla Senior Consultant, Respiratory Medicine,Saroj Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi