Following a specific diet or eating clean is often equated with weight loss, however the idea behind healthy consumption was never to fit into clothes a size smaller, the whole reason behind eating healthy was for one to experience a healthier body and more importantly a healthier mind.

With every passing day especially in the wake of the pandemic, not only are the consumers becoming more conscious of what they fuel themselves with but are also becoming more aware and educated in respect to what would be good and bad for their body. In short, the emphasis today is on value and the importance of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

The World Health Organisation during the pandemic had revamped the nutritional guidelines to ensure a better immune system while also working towards a reduction of chronic and lifestyle diseases.

Globally the pharma companies have successfully delivered medications for almost every possible infection or disease and one during the time of sickness may end up choosing over-the-counter medications or home remedies, however this is never a long term solution. While there is a vast availability of medications and there are millions of home remedies one can adopt, it is equally necessary for one to work towards building a stronger immunity with the help of healthy foods.

The Indian market in itself has the most nutritious-packed foods available that can augment the immunity and also give them the strength to fight infections and diseases. Some of these super foods are,

1) DRY FRUITS & NUTS
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, dates are perceived to be expensive, however being a powerhouse of nutrients they grant myriad health benefits while also being a tasty and a healthy snacking option. Dry Fruits and Nuts whenever added to one’s diet, do not only boost immunity, manage weight, maintain a healthy heart but can also vitalise brain health and memory. These are packed with good fats and dietary fiber which can further help combat medical problems such as constipation, while keeping one’s gut system healthy.

2) CITRUS FRUITS
Vitamin C plays a major role when it comes to oppugning infections or healing wounds. This is great for a stronger immune system and can be most commonly found in citrus fruits such as Oranges, Kiwi, Lemon, Grapefruit etc. These can also escalate and boost iron absorption in the body. Since Vitamin C cannot be produced or stored in the body; hence it is essential for one to consume this every day to build a stronger immune system.

3) DARK CHOCOLATE
Dark chocolate isn’t called the food of Gods for nothing. It is packed with nutrients that can positively influence one’s health. It is one of the best sources of antioxidants and is known to improve health while lowering the risk of heart diseases. Dark Chocolate contains an antioxidant “theobromine” that can shield body cells from molecules that are produced when the body comes in contact with pollutants. This can be an indulgence to one’s diet, however this is also high in calories which makes it important for one to consume this in moderation.

4) INDIAN SPICES
Indian spices are a goldmine of immunity boosting ingredients. From asafoetida to turmeric, Indian spices are globally known to enrich one’s immunity, fight diseases and result in better health. They help digest food and prevent instances of gastroenteritis. Some of the spices apart from turmeric and asafoetida that can be a great addition to one’s diet for better immunity would be cloves, black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds and so on.

5) YOGURT
Yogurt is a warehouse of probiotics or good bacteria. These can better the immune function while keeping one’s gut in a healthy condition. Yogurt is reinforced with Vitamin D, Calcium, Protein and gut-friendly bacteria, making it your immune system’s best friend. Good bacteria will not only fight the bad bacteria but will also restore the body’s balance and help control inflammation.

While these foods can be found in every household, what matters is its integration. With successful fusion of such immunity building foods with everyday meals, not only will it help boost one’s immunity but will also prevent him/her from falling sick. There are many other ways that can enhance one’s immunity and their power to fight diseases. These include regular exercises, a well-balanced diet, meditation for a stress-free mind, and proper sleep.

With the pandemic still out of our window, it is fundamental for one to prioritize their health and well-being above everything else. Measures can be taken every single day to welcome better immunity, however the question is “Have you started taking them?”.

–Vikas D. Nahar, CEO & Founder of Happilo.