It’s strange to think that we’re living in the middle of a global pandemic. Many feel scared and powerless, mostly from the fear of contracting COVID-19. Besides following the guidelines of the CDC and your governor, the best thing you can do for you and your body is maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. We want to point you to the foods that will help you stay healthy and keep your immune system up!
2. Leafy Greens
Right now is also the beginning of spring, which is the perfect time for some refreshing salads. Here’s a tip: The darker and deeper the green, the more nutrients they tend to have, like arugula, kale, or spinach! They’re specifically great for relieving symptoms of a chest cold, like the sniffles or a cough.
3. Garlic
Garlic has been used as medicine for thousands of years. It has both anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities. If you’re suffering from a cold or cold-like symptoms, garlic can help reduce the amount of time symptoms occur. Not to mention that it can help sinusitis, provide energy, and is a natural pain reliever! So, go ahead, add that extra clove…
4. Mushrooms
Fun fact: Mushrooms have a detoxifying effect, reduce fever, and increase immunity. They’re a natural sources of selenium, which is an essential mineral that strengthens the immune system.
5. Orange
Of course oranges are on the list! While the health benefits are numerous, the noteworthy one this season is the ability to relieve congestion and fatigue. Vitamin C, abundant in citrus fruits, is an antioxidant that reduces cold symptoms naturally up to 23%.
6. Ginger
If you don’t use ginger in your food or tea, we hope to change your mind! Ginger is an excellent remedy for a sore throat because it’s a natural anti-inflammatory. You can cut fresh ginger into inch sized slices and boil in water for a pain-relieving tea.
7. Broth
We know, it’s grandmother’s classic choice. But that’s because it works! Broths are excellent sources of hydration, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and calcium. Furthermore, it’s tasty, so you can use it to make plenty of different dishes.
8. Honey
Honey has a high content of antimicrobial compounds, giving it a potent antibacterial effect. In fact, Ancient Egyptians used it for wound dressing. Honey helps soothe sore throats and can help suppress coughs in children. (Honey should not be given to children under 12 months old.)
9. Avocados
Avocados are an unusual fruit because they are low in carbs but high in fat. There’s a payoff though - they’re a great source of fiber, minerals, and vitamins! The healthy fats in the avocado help decrease inflammation while also supporting the immune system.
10. Dark Chocolate
We’ve saved the best for last. Choose your chocolate at 70% cocoa bean or higher to reap some awesome health benefits. After all, it does contain more disease-fighting antioxidants (known as polyphenols) than most berries do!
Good Advise. Want to Try the Ginger Tea.
Happy to help, Judith! Try adding a little honey, too – it’s really tasty!