These Spices Support the Immune System

These days when the weather starts to get cold, diseases such as colds and flu are increasing. The heat imbalances caused by the change of seasons and the transition to face-to-face education in schools also pave the way for the spread of diseases. Keeping the immune system strong plays a key role in all diseases, including Covid-19.

These days when the weather starts to get cold, diseases such as colds and flu are increasing. The heat imbalances caused by the change of seasons and the transition to face-to-face education in schools also pave the way for the spread of diseases. Keeping the immune system strong plays a key role in all diseases, including Covid-19. Healthy nutrition and correct food selection are important in increasing body resistance. For example, spices used to flavor dishes actually support immunity as well as nutrients. From Memorial Şişli Hospital Nutrition and Diet Department, Uz. dit. E. Tuğba Fabric gave information about the health benefits of spices.

Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice rich in vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene, vitamin C and B group vitamins. Turmeric has antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. With these effects, turmeric protects and strengthens the immune system. Thanks to the curcumin polyphenol in its content, it has a protective and therapeutic effect on health problems such as various cancers, antilipidemia, Parkinson's disease, gastrointestinal system problems, Alzheimer's, diabetes, obesity, multiple sclerosis.

Ginger: Ginger contains vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium and phosphorus. In experimental studies, it has been determined that the antioxidant effects of ginger are high enough to be compared with standard antioxidant substances. It supports immunity with its vitamin C content. Ginger prevents colds and helps in its treatment. It is expectorant and good for cough. It can also be consumed as a preventative against diseases during the cold and flu season. It has been observed in studies that, thanks to its antioxidant effects, it can act as a wall in the immune system, is protective against cancer and has anti-aging effects. It has provided positive results in patients with type 2 diabetes by regulating insulin resistance.

Thyme: Thyme is mainly used as an aromatic herb in world cuisines, but it also comes to the fore as a medicinal plant. Thyme is a rich source of fiber, calcium, iron, manganese and vitamins A, B6 and C. It is a strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and supports the immune system with these properties. It is especially beneficial in upper respiratory tract diseases such as flu, bronchitis, sore throat, cough and cold.

Mint: It has an anti-microbial effect. Manganese is a very good source of vitamins A and C. It is also rich in folate, iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, omega 3 fats and B2 vitamins. Peppermint, which contains plenty of vitamins A and C, is immune-friendly in its dry or wet form. You can spend the winter season in a healthy and productive way with mint tea, which has an anti-infective effect.

Cloves: Cloves are rich in vitamins A, K, E, B6 and minerals such as calcium, manganese, potassium and sodium. Clove has high antioxidant power and is a very good pain reliever, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory. Vitamins K and C in its content play a role in supporting the immune system. Consuming cloves in cold weather, when the body's resistance decreases, provides protection against many seasonal ailments.

Capsicum: Capsicum is one of the largest sources of dietary antioxidants (flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, vitamin A, ascorbic acid, tocopherols). Red pepper is also used as a natural antibacterial agent. With these features, it supports and strengthens immunity.

Spicy drink recipes that support and protect immunity

Green Tea with Ginger Lemon

1 teaspoon of green tea

3 cubes of fresh ginger

2 slice of lemon

1 cinnamon stick

Fabrication:

You can consume the ingredients by boiling them together.

Turmeric Honey Apple Tea

1 apples

2-3 cloves

1 turmeric

1 teaspoon of honey

Fabrication:

After boiling apple, clove and turmeric, you can consume it by adding honey.

Golden Milk

1 glass of milk (animal or vegetable)

1 teaspoon of turmeric,

1 teaspoon of honey and

1 pinch of black pepper

Fabrication:

You can mix all the ingredients with hot or cold milk and consume.