HEALTH SPECIAL......................... 8 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY

 8 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY 

We are all born with a certain level of immunity that helps our bodies fight bacteria and other germs so that illnesses are prevented. This is inherent immunity, but it can be strengthened. Here’s how:

1.    Take care of the intestine.

The intestinal lining hides a formidable system of immunity that helps balance healthy and unhealthy bacteria. When the healthy bacteria predominate, the body gets a steady flow of immune cells to fight diseasecausing germs.
Boost it: Eat probiotic foods, and avoid junk foods, fried foods, overeating and acidic foods like coffee, fizzy drinks and tea boiled with milk.

2.    Ashwagandha:

 Ayurveda describes ashwagandha as a tonic, which helps repair damaged immune cells, and in turn helps the immune cells circulate through the body via blood.
Boost it: Take ashwagandha with coconut water daily for eight weeks.

3.    Amla:

Amla, the Indian gooseberry, is a major component of the age-old immunity booster, chawanprash. It contains a very high level of vitamin C that strengthens immunity. So high is the vitamin C level, that it is found in both fresh and dried amla – a unique property, because vitamin C is a delicate and unstable vitamin.
Boost it: Eat amla as chawanprash, chutney, murrabba, or drink it as a juice (one teaspoon in a glass of water).

4.    Guduchi:

Guduchi is a herb prescribed by ayurveda for fevers, liver health and to boost immunity. It is considered a rasayan (tonic).
Boost it: For best results take half a teaspoon of Guduchi with water.

5.    Vitamin and mineral supplements:

Some vitamins and minerals are essential for good health and strong immunity. These include selenium, zinc and vitamin B complex.
Boost it: Take these as supplements during the flu season.

6.    Neem oil:

Neem oil prevents insect bites so you can avoid infection. Neem also has immunity-boosting properties.
Boost it: Add a leaf or two to a chutney or vegetable juice and consume every day.

7.    Garlic:

Worldwide research has proved that garlic is antibacterial and helps with the immune system.
Boost it: Add garlic to cooked dishes, pickles and chutneys.

8.    Turmeric:

 There’s a reason that your grandparents stubbornly thrust haldi at you when you’re unwell. It’s anti-inflammatory and an immunity booster.

SHIKHA SHARMA HTBR 4OCT15