Boosting your immunity… I am sure you’ve heard this term now more than ever, simply because it has become the need of the hour. But is immunity exactly? Immunity refers to the ability of our bodies and minds to withstand the stresses of our daily life. It is also our ability to cope with imbalance and disease.

Simply put it is the body’s ability to protect itself from foreign invaders like viruses, disease, and infection. So it is the strength of our immune system which decides who gets sick and who doesn’t.

Fortunately, most of us are born with optimal immunity. Unfortunately, though, as we age because of environmental assaults and our less than perfect lifestyles, our immunity first becomes rusty and then slowly gets depleted, That is why it is important to keep optimizing the function of this (immunity) system. Or in other words, boost your immunity. 

So how can we build our immunity?
There is no bypassing the importance of eating right. To have a strong immune system, your diet must contain ample antioxidants, micronutrients, and all essential vitamins and minerals, and most certainly enough high-quality protein.

Vitamin C is absolutely essential for a strong immunity. You can get enough of it for citrus fruits and amla. Vitamin D has a significant impact on the efficacy of the immune system. So you need to get enough sunlight every day. Beta-carotene too is a valuable protector of the immune system as it strengthens white blood cell production, your disease fighters in the body. Similarly, zinc and selenium are two minerals we must get enough of too.

You need protein too for a strengthened immunity.

Protein is composed of amino acids which are utilised by the body to manufacture antibodies that protect us against a wide range of infections.

Eating a balanced diet can help get enough protein in our diet. But it is important to ensure both quantity as well as the quality of protein.

Not all food sources of protein contain all the nine essential amino acids our body requires. Animal products supply all. So if you are not able to meet your protein needs through food, you can opt for a supplement that delivers the already half digested (predigested) proteins called hydrolysed protein.

Finally curcumin that we can get from turmeric is a strong cold and flu-fighter. Has both antiviral and antioxidant properties to help your body ward off any viral infections. 

Don’t let your wayward lifestyle take a toll on your health. Eat right and build your immunity to stay healthy and safe.