DRINKS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

As we are beginning to come to terms with the draconian measures being introduced worldwide to try to stem the impact of Covid-19 I have been giving some thought to the types of drinks we can consume in an effort to boost our immune systems.

I must fess up here. Although I am considered to be in a high-risk category, I am not much into health giving juices and suchlike. Try as hard as I might, I fail to understand the joys of drinking dark green vegetable matter, although my best friend swears by her daily dose of aloe vera. However, I can appreciate the benefits of getting those all-important vitamins and minerals on board as we do our best to stay healthy.

At risk of causing a run on supplies (as with loo rolls, paracetamol and sanitiser), if you are not in the mood to juice your own, most supermarkets now offer a range of juice combinations that will help to keep us all healthy in the coming weeks and months.

It is worth mentioning here that for those forced to self-isolate there are a number of individuals and charitable organisations on hand ready and willing to provide support to anyone who needs it. Just ask.

Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

The stronger your immune system, the less chance you’ll have of falling ill and if you do, the quicker you’ll recover. There are a number of foods that can give your immune system a boost, and when consumed as juices they are easier for your body to digest and absorb. 

Lemon and ginger tea

Both are full of anti-oxidants and vitamins. Ginger helps to increase blood circulation and lemons can help sooth inflammation. Cinnamon sprinkled on top can slow down any bacteria in your system, preventing it from multiplying as rapidly.

Watermelon and mint

Watermelon contains lypocene, an immune boosting food containing powerful anti-oxidants, and if you’ve got a blocked nose the menthol in mint will help you breathe more easily.

Berries

Berries are full of vitamins, and as we all know, blueberries are considered a superfood.  

Citrus fruit juice

Orange, grapefruit, lemon, lime, and also tomatoes, provide much needed vitamin C, which helps to fight off infections and protect against viruses, whilst also encouraging the absorption of iron, a key nutrient that keeps cells healthy and strong. Fresh is the best option so to avoid anything that says ‘from concentrate’ as this tends to have added sugar; or squeeze/juice your own!

Kale, broccoli and spinach juice

Good for the immune system as these vegetables are full of vitamins A, K and C, as well as calcium, copper, potassium and magnesium.

Herbal tea

Both chamomile and green tea contain phytochemicals which have protective properties meaning they could help to see off cold and flu viruses. Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Carrot juice

This is rich in β-carotene, an antioxidant that is converted into vitamin A in the body, counteracting free radicals in the body which can cause damage to cells, and aiding it in its fight against viruses and allergies.

Water

Last but not least, keep yourself well hydrated to flush out any toxins from the body, enabling the immune system to function as normal. The recommended daily intake is  3- 4 pints. (1.5 – 2litres).

Stay safe and healthy; we are all in this together.