With the cold and wet months fast appearing, picking up certain sickness like colds and flus are not out of the equation for anyone. This results in constant coughing, sneezing and sniffing that can make doing effortless things breathing through one’s nostrils extremely difficult. Not to mention the irritation that occurs in the throat area.
For many it appears as if our bodies are at its weakest during winter months, and this is exactly the case.
According to the American news publication CNN, the reason most people are extremely sensitive to picking up colds, flus and other respiratory illness during winter is due to the drop in temperature.
According to the reputable news publication cold air lowers the immune system, and the first place of attack usually occurs in the nostrils.
“Cold air is associated with increased viral infection because you’ve essentially lost half of your immunity just by that small drop in temperature.”
Dr. Zara Patel, professor of otolaryngology has highlighted that reducing the temperature inside of the nose by as little as 5 degrees Celsius is enough to kill nearly 50% of the billions of helpful bacteria-fighting cells in the nostrils.
It is therefore helpful to note that having a strong immune system is vital to ensuring that your body is strong enough to fight any virus that comes its way.
One way of achieving this is by ensuring that you eat nutritious foods that does a good job at building a strong immune system.
These are the top five as recommended by Healthline:
Citrus fruits – Fruits like lemons, oranges, tangerines, limes and grapefruit contain vitamin C which is known to increase white blood cells in order to fight off infections.
Broccoli – This vegetable is supercharged with abundant vitamins and mineral such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as fibre and other antioxidants.
Ginger – This is considered perfect for inflammation and good at soothing a sore throat.
Papaya – A good source of vitamin C, and contains digestive enzymes called papain which has anti-inflammatory effects.
Kiwi – Packed with nutrients and contains vitamins C and K.
Also see: 5 Tips to help combat the symptoms of colds and flu
