6 Immune-Boosting Drinks to Protect You from Winter Illnesses
As winter sets in and the air quality in Delhi deteriorates with AQI levels soaring to 494, the risk of seasonal health problems increases. With pollution levels expected to rise further, it's essential to take precautions and prepare your body to stay healthy. Experts advise maintaining a nutrient-dense diet and staying active indoors to counter the adverse effects of pollution. Children, in particular, are more vulnerable to seasonal diseases. One simple and effective way to boost your immunity this winter is by consuming immunity-enhancing drinks. Here are some drinks that can help you stay strong this season:
1. Nourishing Soups
Soups made with ingredients like kale, spinach, pumpkin, carrots, lentils, and ginger serve as a full detox, keeping the body cleansed and fortified. These soups are packed with essential nutrients and also have properties that prevent potential health issues. The addition of ginger and turmeric amplifies their anti-inflammatory effects.
2. Tulsi Tea
According to Dr. Akanksha Singh, a senior cosmetologist at SENS Clinic, Tulsi tea is a powerful drink to combat both air pollution and winter illnesses. Tulsi helps reduce inflammation in the lungs, providing relief from colds, coughs, and congestion. It also lowers blood pressure, improves cognitive function, supports heart health, and enhances skin vitality.
3. Lemon Green Tea
Lemon green tea is a fantastic choice for detoxifying and maintaining good health. The antioxidants in green tea help fight oxidative stress caused by pollutants, while the citric acid in lemon aids liver detoxification and digestion, flushing out toxins from the body.
4. Beetroot Drink
Holistic wellness coach Eshanka Wahi suggests beetroot drinks as a great way to improve lung function, especially in individuals with respiratory conditions like obstructive pulmonary disease. To prepare beetroot tea, combine the juice of one lemon, a teaspoon of grated ginger or ginger paste, and half a grated beetroot in a teapot. Pour hot water over the mixture, let it steep for 10 minutes, strain, and add honey for extra flavor.
5. Fresh Orange Juice
Packed with folate and vitamins, fresh orange juice is an excellent choice for reducing inflammation and strengthening your immune system. The flavonoids in orange juice help fight off the flu and common colds, while its high fiber content contributes to the prevention of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
6. Lemon and Mint Drink
A refreshing lemon and mint drink is full of Vitamin C, which helps protect your cells from oxidative stress, and is excellent for detoxification. This drink is great for boosting immunity and flushing out toxins from your system. Alongside these drinks, it’s essential to stay hydrated and maintain a diet rich in green vegetables, fiber, and other nutrients. A morning routine with lemon water, ginger, and peppermint can further improve lung health and overall immunity. It’s also advisable to avoid processed foods and opt for citrus juices like sweet lime, grapefruit, and galgal.
