6 Anti-Viral Foods to Boost Immunity

With virus and bacteria spreading all around, we all are looking for a bubble of protection. And the recent outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has made one thing clear. It is our immune system that can help us fight the deadliest diseases. So, in this blog, I bring you the 6 Best Anti-Viral Foods for immunity.

These natural immune boosters have been used for centuries. And now they are scientifically proven for their efficacy. Ayurvedic doctors recommend these simple home remedies to stay safe from the seasonal flu and fever. 

So, whether it’s Bird Flu or COVID-19, these anti-viral foods can help. Check them out!

6 Anti-viral foods for immunity

1. Garlic

Garlic is a super antiviral, antifungal and antibiotic food. It has helped man fend off flu and cold for thousands of years. The cloves offer protective benefits to your health and help boost your immune system. Further, garlic contains a high concentration of Sulphur. This helps fight pathogens and keep infections at bay.

When raw garlic is crushed or chopped, it produces a compound called allicin. Research shows that allicin has antiviral and antibacterial properties.  Past studies also prove that garlic can help in curing a common cold and flu.  

Firstly, take Garlic raw or mashed or added to the soups. Secondly, crush a few garlic cloves and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This will help release the health-boosting chemical compounds. 

2. Star anise

The flower-shaped black spice is a magical ingredient on your kitchen shelf. It has strong Anti-viral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. In addition to that, it helps in boosting digestion and improving sleep. All of these contribute to better immunity. 

Star anise also contains shikimic acid. It is a powerful anti-viral compound that helps in beating the influenza virus. Further, its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidizing properties help in beating stress. Boil this spice in water and add it to your teas. This shall keep the flu at bay!

3. Ginger

Ginger is another miracle spice that can kick away a bag of virus and bacteria. It has been used for thousands of years as a natural treatment for cold and flu.  Research studies prove that ginger has anti-viral activities against respiratory tract virus.

This spice has an antibiotic effect on foodborne pathogens. Eating fresh ginger offers an extra layer of protection against salmonella and listeria. It also helps in relieving cold, congestion, inflammation and other ailments of the body. 

Further, ginger is very effective in the soothing sore throat caused by viruses. It is very effective against the common cold, flu, mononucleosis. The bio-active compounds in Ginger help in improving immunity.

Also Read: Ginger juice for weight loss

4. Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains lauric acid. This compound has strong antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Lauric acid can help smack down certain types of viruses and pathogenic bacteria. 

In addition to Lauric acid, coconut oil contains caprylic acid. This aids in boosting the immune system. Coconut oil protects against staph infections. Researchers also say that coconut oil may help combat Coronavirus.

5. Resveratrol

Foods rich in resveratrol are great at fighting anti-viral diseases. Peanuts, pistachios, grapes, blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, cocoa, dark chocolate. Nuts and seeds supply immunity-supportive vitamin E, selenium, and magnesium. Such foods help fight fungal infections.

6. Vitamin-C rich foods

You probably know this, foods rich in vitamin C helps in boosting Immunity. Amla, Papaya, Oranges, Lemon and all kinds of citrus foods are rich in Vitamin C. Broccoli, leafy greens, kale and bell peppers are also nutritious picks. Spinach is rich in vitamin C and it helps shield our immune cells.

Vitamin C contains antioxidants that scavenge free radicals and enhance immunity. This Vitamin is heat-sensitive, so cooking these foods can reduce the amount of this nutrient.

Anti-viral food recipe

Here is how to cook a super immune-boosting meal with anti-viral foods.

Ingredients

• 1 no – Sweet potato
• 1 no – Garlic
• Spring onions
• Parsley
• Rosemary

Method

• Mix these ingredients and make a soup.
• This soup helps boost the immune system and protect you against cold and flu.

Also Read: Chyawanprash for immunity

Anti-viral herbs

• Oregano, tulsi and dried thyme are great for immunity. You can sprinkle them in your curries and soups.
• Drink a cup of ginger or garlic tea along with a tablespoon of thyme, oregano.
• Inhale essential oils like thyme, eucalyptus or star anise. 

Also Read: Guduchi Churna for Immunity

Simple tricks to boost your immunity

• Low levels of Vitamin D3 means low immunity. So, add foods that are rich in Vitamin D. Mushrooms, Egg Yolks and Cheese are good choices.
• Add pre-biotics and probiotics to keep your gut healthy. A healthy gut is key to stronger immunity. 
• Keep your hands-off white sugar, candies and unhealthy stuff.
• Make sure to get a good night sleep and take a rest when you feel exhausted.
• Exercise and stay hydrated. This is very important for impenetrable immunity.

My take – Anti-viral foods for immunity

In conlusion, the best way to boost immunity is not supplements or capsules. The key to good immunity is food and lifestyle. Hence, you must up your diet to stay healthy and protected!

Make sure to eat a healthy diet that’s rich in nutrients. Stay away from burnouts and stress. Don’t skip your physical workouts and don’t compromise on your sleep. These simple tips are scientifically proven to boost your immunity and prevent you from flu, fever and infections!