immunity-boosting superfoods to add to your diet now

what is immunity

our immune system, a complex network of pathways, protects us from harmful microbes and certain diseases by recognizing foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. the human body has two types of immunity: innate and adaptive.

innate immunity is a first-line defense against pathogens through protective barriers like skin, mucus, stomach acid, sweat and tear enzymes, and immune system cells.

adaptive immunity, on the other hand, is a system that learns to recognize pathogens, regulated by cells and organs like the spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and lymph nodes. when a foreign substance enters the body, these cells and organs create antibodies and multiply immune cells, including white blood cells, to attack and destroy it. the immune system then adapts by remembering the foreign substance, making it more efficient and quick to destroy it if it enters again.

factors suppressing the immune system

in the current diet and lifestyle pattern, there are several factors that are responsible for poor or low immunity in indians, especially in urban areas. people from all age groups fall sick more than thrice a year and are susceptible to viruses and infections resulting in dependency on antibiotics. let’s get a better understanding of what these factors are.

environmental toxins: substances like smoke and alcohol, when exposed to on a regular basis, impair immune cell activity.

imbalanced diet: malnutrition or a diet lacking in nutrients impairs immune cell production and activity and may lead to long-term health concerns from a young age.

chronic diseases: autoimmune and immunodeficiency disorders can disable immune cells and make it harder for the immune system to fight against infections and viruses.

chronic mental stress: stress releases hormones that suppress inflammation and white blood cell action. lack of adequate rest and sleep adds further stress on the immune system.

in order to reduce the need for antibiotics and strengthen the body’s immune system, certain herbs and ingredients can be incorporated into our meals.

honey: honey is famous for its traditional use in treating colds and is known for its soothing properties. it is highly recommended in ayurveda for kapha disorders, such as colds, and provides a delicious way to support your child's immune system.

tulsi: also known as holy basil, tulsi is a natural remedy that helps the body fight cold and flu symptoms, balance metabolism, and strengthen the immune system. adding tulsi to your child's diet can provide significant health benefits.

ginger: ginger offers numerous health benefits, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. it contains micronutrients like zinc, silicon, and magnesium, which help boost immunity when consumed regularly. ginger's anti-inflammatory agents also help protect against infections and illnesses.

turmeric: turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that prevents frequent illness. it also boosts immunity, making it an effective way to prevent common ailments like colds and flu by consuming it regularly.

garlic: garlic, with its active ingredient allicin sativum, has been linked to antiviral and antimicrobial effects against the common cold.

ashwagandha: ashwagandha is a potent anti-inflammatory herb with bioactive compounds that inhibit the growth of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby reducing inflammation and bolstering the immune system.

giloy: giloy has been proven to have antidiabetic, antioxidant, antihepatotoxic, and immunomodulatory properties. giloy constituents have been found to possess immune-stimulating properties.

amla: amla is a widely accepted immunity booster. polyphenol and vitamin c in amla bioactive compounds have antioxidant activity, and potential health benefits like anti-hyperlipidemia, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, digestive tract, and neurological protection. studies show promising results in promoting health and disease prevention.

by incorporating these simple ingredients into your diet, you can strengthen your immune system and enable it to fight common viruses and infections without the need for antibiotics or other allopathic medicines.

Làvi’s immunity boosting program

Làvi’s 3-month immunity boosting regimen not only alters your meal plan to better support your immune system, but also makes the regimen a part of your lifestyle. our nutrition and ayurveda experts curate personalized immunity plans to best support health conditions like diabetes, blood pressure, pcos, and more.