Cold shield: top 5 available products to strengthen immunity in autumn in Belarus

With the onset of wet and windy autumn weather, our body begins to work in high load mode. Temperature changes, lack of sunlight and seasonal viruses arrange a real test for the strength of the body's defenses. Instead of immediately running to the pharmacy for expensive vitamin complexes, you should look at the nearest store or the farmer's market. Known and affordable foods can be a powerful barrier to colds.

We have collected five best products to support immunity, which are easy to find on the shelves of Belarusian stores this fall.

1. Sauerkraut is the main source of vitamin C

Many are accustomed to consider citrus kings of vitamin C, but the traditional Belarusian snack can make them a serious competitor. In the process of natural fermentation, a huge amount of ascorbic acid and lactic acid bacteria is formed in sauerkraut.

1. 1.How it works: The health of the immune system directly depends on the state of the intestinal microflora (about 70-80% of immune cells are concentrated there). Sauerkraut works as a natural probiotic, improving digestion and helping the body fight off pathogens.

2. Pumpkin is the gold of the autumn season

The bright orange color of the pumpkin is the main sign of a high content of beta-carotene, which in the body turns into vitamin A.

1. 1.How it works: Vitamin A is responsible for the integrity and health of the airway mucous membranes. They are the first to take a hit when encountering respiratory viruses. In addition, the pumpkin is rich in fiber, potassium and magnesium, which support the overall tone and help to cope with the autumn blues. It makes excellent warming mashed soups and useful casseroles.

3. Garlic and onions – “natural antibiotics”

These products are a constant classic of traditional medicine, the effectiveness of which is fully recognized by scientists. Their main secret lies in the high content of phytoncides and allicin - powerful etheric compounds.

1. 1.How it works: Regular consumption of fresh garlic and onions helps the body quickly destroy pathogens even at the stage of their penetration. To get the most benefit, add them to prepared meals raw just before serving.

4. Cranberries and lingonberries – forest antioxidants

Belarusian swamps are rich in valuable berries, which are perfectly stored all winter. Cranberries and lingonberries are real concentrates of organic acids, B, C, PP vitamins and powerful antioxidants.

1. 1.How it works: Berries help reduce inflammatory processes in the body and strengthen the walls of blood vessels. Autumn fruit from cranberries without adding a large amount of sugar is a great way not only to maintain water balance in the heating season, but also to protect the body from toxins.

5. Honey is a sweet medicine

Natural honey is a complex biological cocktail containing more than 300 beneficial components, including enzymes, minerals and organic acids.

1. 1.How it works: Honey has a mild anti-inflammatory and sweatshop effect, activates metabolic processes and helps the body restore strength. The main rule: do not add honey to boiling water, since at temperatures above 40-50 ° C, many of its beneficial properties are destroyed. It is better to eat it with a little cooled herbal tea.

Expert council

Doctor Olga Lisenkova emphasizes the importance of zinc and vitamin C. The doctor recommends adding pumpkin seeds and beef liver to the diet to replenish the reserves of zinc, which is responsible for the barrier functions of the skin and mucous membranes.

“Zinc is needed to maintain immunity. It is key for immunity, healing of mucous membranes and skin (our barriers), the work of liver enzymes (and immunity is associated with the liver), said Olga Lisenkova. “The record holder for the content of zinc – oysters, it is also contained in red meat, beef liver, pumpkin seeds.”.

The diet is the basis of good health, but immunity requires an integrated approach. In order for the products to bring maximum benefit, try to observe a sleep regime (at least 7-8 hours), walk more often in the fresh air in spite of cloudy weather and dress according to the season. At the first signs of malaise, do not self-medicate and contact specialists.

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