Immunity is a function of metabolism and nutrition. Our body’s network of tissues and cells act as a defense system that tries to keep out germs like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. The immune system is spread throughout our body. Human immunity includes our endocrine glands and our lymphatic system. A good, functional, and robust immune system will prevent infectious diseases. Human immunity depends on various aspects. Each one is as important as the other. We should have an integrated and holistic approach to make our immune system robust. A healthy nutritious vegetarian diet is fundamental.

Which include fruits, vegetables, greens and salads. Unrefined diversified grains, millets, beans, pulses and sprouts. Unrefined cold-pressed oils. Avoid processed and fast foods. A daily dose of herbal supplements and multivitamins, including amla, lemon and betel leaf etc. Physical exercise, asanas, pranayama, drinking warm water and exposure to nature and sunlight increases metabolism and boosts immunity.

Supplements: Micronutrient deficiency such as vitamins — has been linked to reduced immunity. Taking a multivitamin supplement, along with eating a healthy diet rich in natural sources of nutrients, boosts overall health as well as the immune system.

Sunshine: Spending some time in natural light is one of the key ways our bodies manufacture vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a role in helping our immune systems produce antibodies; low levels of vitamin D, on the other hand, has been correlated with a higher risk of respiratory infection.

Herbs and Spices: Tulsi, black pepper, turmeric, ginger, honey etc. have anti-inflammatory properties and there is increasing evidence that it helps prevent illnesses too.

Salads: Eat more vegetables. Vegetables, as well as fruits, nuts and seeds, are loaded with nutrients that we need to keep our immune systems in top health. In particular, cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, kale and broccoli help support liver function, a key part of our bodies’ natural detoxification process.

Micro-minerals: In addition to a range of vitamins, it is important to get enough — but not too much — of key minerals that are important to daily health. Natural Himalayan salt contains all trace minerals for proper functioning of our immune cells.
Mushrooms: Certain types of mushrooms, particularly Japanese mushrooms like shiitake, maitake and oyster mushrooms, have recently been shown to help support the production of immune cells. They’re also loaded with antioxidants.

Probiotics: Probiotics, or ‘good’ bacteria, is not only an important part of a healthy digestive process but also our immune systems. A study on athletes found that probiotic supplements helped prevent and combat colds, but you can also get probiotics from naturally fermented food sources, like buttermilk, pickled vegetables and salads.

Sleep: A good night sleep of about 6 to 7hours, between 9:00pm to 5:00am is essential. Stress is also an important factor in healthy immunity. Stress can be reduced by proactive planning, quality relationships, meditation and spirituality. Boosting immunity is can be delicious, relaxing and fun.

Prevention is always better than cure. Health and wellbeing is the foundation of a good life.

Author — Dr. Muralidhar Acharya, (MD, Alt.Med) | www.pvecovillage.life | WhatsApp: 9000633590