Author: Joe Fowler
Time for reading: ~2
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
Three foods whose ingredients strengthen the body's natural defenses in its fight against infections.
There are products that support the immune system in its activity against "foreign bodies" and infections. Here are three that would hardly surprise anyone about the benefits for the body. However, what is the effect that strengthens their natural defenses ...
It contains some of the strongest compounds ( allicin, thiosulfates , etc.), which help the body fight infections. Garlic has been considered an antibacterial and antifungal agent for centuries and actually surpasses even some drugs in effectiveness. Researchers confirm that the consumption of large amounts of garlic at the beginning of a cold shortens the duration of the disease and the severity of complaints.
Experts say that the beneficial enzymes of garlic are released after being left to stand for minutes after slicing and before being added to the dish. However, in order to preserve its useful qualities, it should be added almost at the end of cooking, and it is preferable to consume it raw. Especially in periods of high prevalence of viral and bacterial infections, it is recommended to regularly eat 1-2 cloves several times a week to maintain immunity against the disease.
Extremely rich in beta-carotene root, which has the ability to stimulate the formation of N-cells, killer cells, and T-lymphocytes. These cells deal with harmful microorganisms that cause infections and disease.
Falcarinol in carrots is considered a super ingredient that is considered promising for the treatment of cancer.
It is clear that in order to take advantage of valuable substances in carrots, we must consume them raw. During heat treatment, almost all of the beta-carotene content and part of falcarinol are lost. Experts recommend that dishes be prepared with whole carrots, so there is a greater chance to preserve their useful ingredients. For this purpose, use young carrots, and prepare the larger ones in juice - mixed with apple is an extremely tonic elixir - or eat as a snack between main meals instead of salads or biscuits ...
It is recommended to consume at least 300 g of carrots a day.
Yogurt provides live bacteria that we need in the fight against pathogens that we encounter. Acidophilic bacteria secrete lactic acid, improve digestion and accelerate the breakdown of complex compounds into simpler substances.
Without them, our body would have a hard time coping with the absorption of many nutrients, which would affect the immune system.
Acidophilic bacteria successfully eliminate pathogenic microorganisms, for example against salmonella and shigella, the former most often responsible for food poisoning, the latter the cause of dysentery. They are also effective against some viruses.
The bifidobacteria in yogurt support the immune system. They are especially valuable for the elderly because they stimulate their immunity. Research shows that regular consumption of yogurt affects the number of T-lymphocytes, N-cells and T-helper cells.
A bucket of yogurt a day - this is a useful amount, but provided that it contains beneficial bacteria. Therefore - look at the label before buying it.