Healthy eating to restore immunity. Proper nutrition for immunity

Healthy sleep, exercise and hardening - many people know that thanks to them you can strengthen the immune system and prevent the development of many diseases. But on the list of prerequisites for good health there is another very important item - proper nutrition.

Honey

Natural bee honey is the simplest and at the same time effective way to strengthen the immune system. It is best to consume this product with tea, placing a small amount on an apple slice or on fresh bread. Every day it is enough to eat just one tablespoon of natural honey. The key to success in this case will be not only the quality of the bee product itself, but also the regularity of its use.

Important! Just never add honey to hot drinks, as under the influence of high temperatures, most of the valuable substances will be destroyed!

Health Recipes

Honey works great individually, but if the immune system is severely weakened, it can be combined with other healthy products:

  • honey + freshly squeezed aloe juice, mixed in equal proportions, taken twice a day - in the morning before breakfast and in the evening before bed;
  • honey + grated fresh ginger – this mixture helps improve blood circulation and lower cholesterol;
  • 100 ml of honey + 1 lemon + 3 cloves of garlic – grind everything in a meat grinder and take a tablespoon before breakfast and before bed.

Lemon

This citrus fruit is famous for its high percentage of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. It also contains vitamins, organic acids, pectins and carotene, which will improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract.

Application

Lemon also shows excellent results in the fight against colds:

  • Freshly squeezed juice of one lemon, diluted in a glass of boiled chilled water, will help you get rid of sore throat and pharyngitis - the resulting solution is used for rinsing;
  • for colds, use a similar composition with the addition of a small amount of table salt.

Ginger

Ginger root occupies a leading position in the list of remedies whose action is aimed at increasing the body's defenses. This natural medicine can be used not only by adults, but also offered to children aged two years and older.

Important! Ginger root should be introduced into a child’s diet gradually, after consulting with a pediatrician!

The highest concentration of nutrients is concentrated in the fresh product. To improve overall well-being, it is added to teas, infusions and decoctions, and at the first manifestations of a cold, it is used for inhalation.

Healing drink

  • peel the two-centimeter root;
  • Bring 2 liters of water to a boil over high heat;
  • Place finely grated ginger in boiling water and cook over low heat for no more than 10 minutes;
  • If desired, add lemon and sugar to the drink and take a teaspoon, washed down with tea and honey.

Garlic

A substance found in garlic is allicin, which is a natural antibiotic. It is this component that gives garlic its special power - it helps to quickly restore the body’s strength after the flu and has the ability to thin sputum, so its use will be fully justified for bronchitis and pneumonia.

Garlic exhibits an antiseptic effect and eating just one clove of it daily is an excellent prevention of colds and viral infections. But this product can not only cleanse the body of pathogenic microorganisms, it also has a diuretic and diaphoretic effect, thereby relieving fever.

Sauerkraut

This product is one of the most accessible and inexpensive sources of ascorbic acid. And if you add a small amount of unrefined vegetable oil and a small portion of chopped onion to sauerkraut, you will get a real “vitamin bomb”! Such a simple, at first glance, salad can:

  • strengthen the immune system;
  • activate metabolic processes;
  • reduce cholesterol levels;
  • increase the body's resistance to stress;
  • stimulate the work of the heart muscle.

Rose hip

Rosehip is a wild plant with incredibly healthy fruits. Its berries have long been used to make medicinal infusions that relieve chronic and acute inflammatory processes. In terms of vitamin C content, rosehip is superior to lemon and black currant; it exhibits a powerful bactericidal effect and is often used as a prophylactic against flu and colds.

A simple recipe for a healing infusion

  • We wash a handful of ripe or dried rose hips;
  • Boil a liter of water in a saucepan;
  • add fruits and a couple of tablespoons of sugar;
  • Immediately turn off the heat, cover with a lid and leave for an hour.

Fermented milk products

Fermented milk products are an essential component of a proper healthy diet. The nutrients included in their composition are easily absorbed by the body, and lacto- and bifidobacteria stimulate the absorption of lactose and complex milk sugars.

Lactic acid, which is formed during the production of such products, helps our body in the following ways:

  • prevents the proliferation of putrefactive microflora;
  • activates the development of beneficial bacteria;
  • provides adequate resistance to pathogens of various diseases.

Fermented milk products are rich in organic fatty acids, which normalize microflora and basic intestinal functions - and this, as you know, is one of the main conditions for strong immunity.

Radish

It contains vitamin A, B vitamins, as well as C, E, H and PP. In addition to this, there is a rich mineral range, which allows radish to become a valuable component in the daily diet.

The biologically active substances included in the product play the role of stimulants of the immune system and increase the protective functions of the body. By consuming radish, you can easily avoid colds and prevent the development of viral and infectious diseases.

sea ​​fish

Sea fish contains a huge amount of nutrients that are necessary for the health of our body. The composition of such products includes a special protein that is quickly and easily digested, and there is a complete absence of heavy fats.

Popular varieties

  • Dorado - its use will prevent thrombosis and protect the heart from the action of free radicals.
  • Flounder is an inexhaustible source of selenium, as well as vitamins A and E.
  • Salmon is known for its high concentration of nutrients such as Omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids, calcium and protein.
  • Butterfish is superior to salmon in Omega-3 content; in addition, it contains vitamin B12, a lot of niacin and selenium.

Broccoli

This vegetable is characterized by pronounced antioxidant properties. It contains a large amount of vitamin C and beneficial amino acids, which help the body maintain its defenses and prevent the development of various diseases.

Thanks to the consumption of broccoli, you can cleanse the blood of cholesterol, remove excess fluid and salts, normalize the condition of bone tissue and improve the process of hematopoiesis.

Fruits

Fruits are foods that are usually eaten raw. Without requiring heat treatment, they supply our body with a huge amount of valuable substances, including:

  • bioflavonoids - help the human body function normally, strengthening the walls of blood vessels, stabilizing blood pressure, improving metabolism and protecting against free radicals;
  • coumarins and cahetins (a type of bioflavonoids) - have a beneficial effect on the functions of the cardiovascular system, improve blood circulation, relieve headaches and exhibit an antitumor effect.

Note! But remember that bright and colorful fruits can provide the most reliable protection for the body!

Almond

The benefits of almonds are primarily associated with the high concentration of vitamin E in its composition. This substance is a powerful antioxidant and slows down the aging process. These nuts also contain B vitamins, which are responsible for the proper functioning of our body as a whole.

Beneficial properties of almonds

  • Helps remove sand from the kidneys.
  • Normalizes the functions of the spleen and liver.
  • Cleanses the blood.
  • Shows anticonvulsant effect.
  • Improves brain activity.
  • Increases stress resistance.

Whole grain porridge

Whole grain porridges are distinguished by their high biological value, since they contain a much larger amount of vitamins, macro- and microelements, as well as essential nutrients than products made from refined grains.

Whole grain porridge is a source of fiber, which affects health in the following ways:

  • stimulates intestinal activity;
  • promotes proper natural bowel movements;
  • prevents constipation;
  • cleanses the gastrointestinal tract of harmful substances that come with food;
  • promotes the development of “good” microflora.

Berries

Fresh berries are one of the most important components of a healthy diet. Their main function is to reduce oxidative processes in the body, which are known to provoke premature aging and suppress the immune system.

About the benefits of berries

Most berries contain natural antioxidants, including:

  • vitamin C – supports the health of blood vessels, joint tissue and skin;
  • quercetin – relieves inflammation, improves brain function, stopping the process of memory loss;
  • anthocyanins – provide prevention and treatment of arthritis, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.

Green tea

About 450 types of organic compounds, approximately 500 elements and almost the entire vitamin series were found in green tea. But the substances through which green tea is able to exhibit its beneficial properties deserve special attention:

  • minerals – help improve immunity and are responsible for the normal functioning of all systems;
  • alkaloids – give vigor and fill with energy, thanks to them mental and physical activity is activated and performance increases;
  • polyphenols are often used in medicine for the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Plan your menu wisely and be healthy!

All materials on the website are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any product, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!

A prerequisite for the normal functioning of the body is the presence of good immunity. The latter represents protection against pathogenic bacteria and various infections, which is especially important during periods of their active spread. Proper nutrition helps strengthen the immune system and increases the body's resistance to external factors.

The basis of proper nutrition for the immune system is a balanced saturation of the body with essential proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and microelements. To do this, it is necessary to adhere to a certain ratio of consumed products in the diet.

According to research by the Institute of Nutrition of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the lack of substances in the body is largely due to seasonal conditions.

Thus, in winter, there is a lack of proteins and fats, and in the rest of the year, weakening of the immune system occurs mainly due to the lack of antioxidants, minerals and trace elements in the body in the required amount. Products that improve immunity due to the presence of the necessary components are designed to fill this deficiency.

You can strengthen your immune system with nutrition, following these rules:

  1. Ensure the presence in the diet of foods that improve immunity due to the content of substances necessary for the body. It is important to have enough antioxidants, minerals and trace elements, as well as proteins and fats.
  2. Follow diets prescribed by a specialist to strengthen the immune system, including those determined by the time of year.
    The choice of foods that strengthen the immune system and various diets is best done on the advice of a nutritionist.

Antioxidants to strengthen the immune system

The vital activity of the body requires a large amount of energy, in the process of reproduction of which oxygen is burned. The byproducts this produces, called free radicals, pose a potential threat to human cells. Antioxidants are substances that neutralize this danger, and their presence in the body in sufficient quantities is necessary to strengthen the immune system.
Foods that improve immunity due to their high content of vitamins C, A and E can compensate for the deficiency or maintain the level of antioxidants. These are citrus fruits, liver, carrots and vegetable oils. Plant substances with antioxidant effects also include flavonoids, which are rich in tomatoes and walnuts.
Vitamin C is found in large quantities in cranberries, rose hips, currants and lingonberries. Grapes are an exceptionally strong antioxidant.

Minerals and trace elements

Products that are good for the immune system must contain the required amount of trace elements and minerals. The latter can be obtained from lettuce, asparagus and broccoli.
The most important microelements are selenium and zinc. They are an important component of the immune system and help restore strength. Their source is mainly seafood, as well as meat, eggs, cheese and nuts. Selenium, which among other things slows down aging, is also present in abundance in the liver and kidneys.
Special attention should be paid to various cereals. Buckwheat porridge containing zinc, potassium, iodine and calcium will help strengthen the immune system with nutrition. Wheat is rich in phosphorus and iron, while rice contains zinc, iron, iodine, calcium and amino acids.

Diets to boost immunity

Proper nutrition for the immune system involves the use of diets. They should be followed depending on the doctor’s instructions.
There are many different techniques. A significant part of nutritionists prefer the Japanese diet, or the inclusion of its elements in the daily diet.

The cuisine of this country uses many foods that strengthen the immune system in preparing dishes. These are seafood such as squid, cod, hake and perch. There may be mackerel on the menu. It is not recommended to fry or smoke these and other types of fish, as this will lose their beneficial properties.
Also, the Japanese diet prescribes the consumption of salmon, trout, herring and red fish, lightly salted and not subjected to heat treatment.

Seasonal conditions dictate the use of a winter diet. At this time of year, there is often a lack of vitamins and various substances in the body.

The basis of such a diet are foods that are beneficial for the immune system due to the presence of large amounts of proteins. The amino acids they contain synthesize immunoglobulin, which is necessary for the immune system. To do this, you should eat meat, eggs and fish. The winter diet does not imply fasting, rather the opposite.

Its other component is fats (lipids), which are important for the immune system, strengthening the walls of lymphocytes. In this case, products that are beneficial for the immune system are lard and butter, as well as sunflower oil, sesame seeds and nuts. However, they should be consumed in moderation (about 30-50 grams per day each).

The duration of the diet is 1.5-2 weeks.

Thematic video:


In general, proper nutrition is important for the immune system, helps strengthen it and helps reduce the risk of disease.

In this article we will talk about foods that increase the overall tone of the body, boost human immunity and strengthen the defense system, we will explain what adults should definitely eat and what children should eat. In order not to get sick during the transition period, you need to take preventive measures in advance: eat more vitamins and stock up on useful microelements. To choose the right means of promoting health, you need to know what we are dealing with.

How does immunity work?

Epidemics of terrible diseases have repeatedly struck the earth: plague, cholera, smallpox. Despite this, humanity continues to exist. Evolution has taken care of us, endowing us with multi-stage protection. We call it the immune system. It has 21 types of cells and 2 types of proteins at its disposal. Each “squad” can perform up to 4 different functions: find and destroy foreign cells, identify the causes of inflammation, maintain communication between different body systems.

The immune system protects us from antigens - substances that have genetic information foreign to us. When a virus or other pathogenic element penetrates inside, our body begins to produce antibodies. They neutralize the “enemy”, and the disease recedes. The body remembers the destroyed antigens and retains the antibodies produced in order to be able to resist the virus in the future.

Types of immunity

  • Specific and non-specific. The first fights against certain antigens, the second is based on a substance called interferon and can resist any viral diseases.
  • Congenital and acquired. The latter occurs after an illness. It is provided by memory cells.
  • Natural and artificial. The first was given to us by evolution, the second by civilization through vaccination.

Signs of a weakened immune system

  • You are tormented by frequent illnesses, but not only colds. Herpes on the lips alternates with a runny nose, cough is replaced by barley.
  • The virus does not recede for 2 weeks or longer.
  • All the chronic diseases you have have sharply worsened: otitis media, tonsillitis, sinusitis.

  • The temperature rises slightly but regularly. If the thermometer consistently shows 37-37.5, think about it. This is a sign that the body is fighting, but is not coping. The battle with bacteria and viruses takes place every day; if everything is in order with the protective system, we do not notice it. Sentinel Cells destroy enemies before they can multiply and become a threat.
  • The opposite situation may also be true. You are sick, you feel unwell, but your temperature remains normal. Medicine has encountered cases where a person had more extensive pneumonia, but the thermometer showed the norm. This reaction is much worse than a fever. It means that the immune system is so weakened that it is unable to continue fighting the infection.
  • You are concerned about the condition of your skin. If you're struggling with frequent breakouts for which the cause is unclear, pay attention to your immune system.
  • You constantly feel tired, doze off on the go, but sleep restlessly. You toss and turn, can’t fall asleep for a long time, are irritable and apathetic.

People get sick more often in winter because the body lacks the sun and the vitamin D it brings. In addition, the sun's rays are a source of good mood. This is also important, because stress and depression force us to take measures to normalize the situation. The brain gives a signal, and a large amount of anti-stress hormones are released into the blood. This process weakens the immune system because it requires a lot of energy. American doctors conducted a scientific experiment in which about 100 people participated. They found that people who had more experiences and unpleasant events during the year were more likely to get ARVI.

Also, deterioration of health can be caused by lack of sleep, excessive stress and, on the contrary, lack of physical activity, taking certain medications, abuse of antibiotics and poor diet. It leads to a deficiency of group B and elements such as zinc and selenium.

Comment from Elena Morozova, a nutritionist at the weight loss clinic:

It is necessary to stipulate the role of vitamin C. In the middle of the last century, the American chemist and winner of two Nobel Prizes, Linus Pauling, in his book “Cancer and Vitamin C”, expressed a theory according to which large doses of ascorbic acid help fight cancer and prolong life. This hypothesis has not found scientific confirmation, but it was picked up by journalists. The media recommended drinking vitamin C in huge doses, claiming that with its help you can cure any disease: from gout to sclerosis. As a result, pharmaceutical companies began large-scale production of corresponding drugs.

When clinical studies proved that there was no need to take large quantities of ascorbic acid, these organizations had to leave the European market and settle in developing countries, which first included the Soviet Union. In Russia, the myth about the miraculous properties of vitamin C is alive. Many people still believe that to increase and strengthen immunity, adults and children need to eat large amounts of foods high in this element. In fact, his role should neither belittled nor exalted. “Guard” cells, phagocytes, actually feed on it, drawing it out of the blood. But for successful life, it is needed to the same extent as other substances. Overuse of ascorbic acid can cause a severe allergic reaction even in those who are not prone to allergies.

What foods strengthen and enhance human immunity?

First, you should clarify which foods negatively affect the immune system. First of all, these are foods rich in carbohydrates. According to endocrinologists, within 6 hours after consuming sucrose, the body’s immune response decreases 17 times. The fact is that the fructose formula and the vitamin C formula are very similar. Phagocytes confuse them. When a sugar crystal enters an immune cell, its sharp edges literally tear it apart from the inside. And a decrease in the number of “guard cells” weakens our natural defenses.

In addition, sugar reduces the effect of medications. To absorb it, the body spends a lot of B vitamins, and vitamin imbalance has a negative impact on health. But this does not mean that carbohydrates should be eliminated completely. A normal dose of glucose of 5 grams will only benefit you, because a balanced diet is the key to good health. But don't forget about the "hidden" sugars found in fruit, milk and bread. If you want to develop the right diet that will provide you with the right amount of useful microelements, minerals and vitamins for every day, contact the Elena Morozova Weight Loss Clinic.

Find out more about our weight loss programs:

What foods can boost a child’s immunity?

Up to 6 months, the baby is protected by the mother's immune system. Between the ages of 7 months and 11 years, he begins to develop his own defense mechanism. She cannot yet quickly cope with antigens, but she strives for this. That is why children in kindergarten and primary school get sick so often. At this age, we recommend focusing on foods that contain vitamins:

  • A. Necessary for improving the functioning of phagocyte cells, protects the immune system from free radicals. It is found in potatoes, sweet peppers, carrots, cabbage, broccoli, avocado, spinach, cottage cheese, butter, apricot, cheese, eggs, liver, pork and beef.
  • IN. Stimulates the immune system and prevents stress and depression. Present in wholemeal bread, milk, cottage cheese, pistachios, peanuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, rolled oats, chicken meat, barley, corn, lentils, raisins, brown rice and legumes.
  • WITH. Thanks to him, people manage to avoid infectious pathologies and stress. It contains rosehip, rowan, black currant, sea buckthorn, strawberries, oranges, lemons, apples, radishes, tomatoes, cauliflower, green peas, beans, radishes, sorrel, sweet peppers, broccoli, strawberries.
  • E. This component helps restore tissues and cells of the human body. It can be found in spinach, cabbage, almonds, avocados, legumes, and butter.
  • D. Necessary for the absorption and assimilation of vitamin E and calcium by humans. It is present in sea fish, fish oil, porcini mushrooms, chicken eggs, milk, butter and liver.

What foods boost immunity in adults?

Focus on the previous list: the list for large and small will be the same. A balanced diet guarantees you good protection. Your diet should contain proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

No group can be excluded, only there you can make up for the deficiency of all microelements and protect yourself from viruses and bacteria. Food should enrich the body:

  • Zinc. Its main function is to create phagocytes and other immune cells. This element also stimulates the effect of vitamins A and C. Contained in pine nuts, peanuts, liver, processed cheese, legumes, wheat, duck, turkey, beef, egg yolk, oysters, shrimp, mushrooms (fresh).
  • Iron. Found in any type of cabbage (red, sea cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli), soybeans, legumes, peas, lentils, apples, prunes, rose hips, blueberries, dogwoods, dried porcini mushrooms, beef liver, halva, blueberries.
  • Selenium. It takes an active part in the production of antibodies necessary in the first stages of the disease, and also prevents the rapid excretion of zinc. Present in dried oyster mushrooms, coconut pulp, liver, garlic, feta cheese, white bread, rice, octopus meat, wheat bran, corn, eggs, lentils, pistachios, brewer's yeast, mushrooms, red and black caviar.
  • Iodine. Necessary for good functioning of the thyroid gland. Contained in sea fish, cabbage, fresh milk, asparagus, tomatoes, garlic, green salad.
  • Magnesium. Cocoa, soybeans, pumpkin, seaweed, olive oil, sorrel, mineral water, sesame, mint, dill, watermelon, basil, Brazil nuts, dried apricots, beans, peas, buckwheat, cashews, and mustard are rich in it.
  • Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. They are needed to prevent the spread of pathogenic microflora in the digestive system. Contained in fresh kvass, dairy products, sauerkraut, pickled apples./li>
  • Phytoncides. Thanks to these elements, the body's ability to resist infections increases and tissue repair accelerates. They are rich in radishes, onions, garlic, black currants, blueberries, bird cherry, horseradish.
  • Unsaturated fatty acids. Thanks to them, inflammation is suppressed and the risk of increased cholesterol and blood pressure is reduced. They are found in broccoli, pumpkin, avocado, sesame oil, salmon, and sunflower seeds.

A deficiency of any of these microelements can cause immunodeficiency.

For adults with weakened immunity, it is recommended to include the following products in the diet to improve overall tone:

  • Honey. It is advisable to consume regularly with tea.
  • Ginger. Adding to decoctions will improve blood circulation and hematopoiesis
  • Sauerkraut. It stimulates metabolic processes and increases stress resistance.
  • Whole grain porridge. They contain a large amount of B vitamins, which are necessary for tissue regeneration.
  • Green tea. Used to prevent diseases and maintain a vigorous state.
  • Fermented milk foods. It activates the development of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
  • Pumpkin seeds. Enriched with many vitamins and amino acids.
  • Garlic (for disease prevention).
  • Rose hip. Has a powerful bactericidal effect.
  • Pomegranate juice. It has a tonic effect and improves the body's defenses.
  • Thyme. It is advisable to use the decoction at the first signs of inflammation.
  • Radish. It increases the body's protective functions.
  • Cranberries. Contains potassium, calcium, magnesium and vitamins B, C, K, A, used to remove harmful substances.

Now you know what foods can boost your immunity and increase your body's defenses. But remember that none of them should be overused. If you want to switch to healthy and tasty food, contact the specialists at the Elena Morozova Weight Loss Clinic. A balanced diet, developed taking into account medical recommendations and your lifestyle, will help you restore your immune system and strengthen your body's defenses.

The nutrients contained in food take part in one way or another in absolutely all vital processes of the body, therefore general well-being, resistance to infectious diseases, ability to work and, finally, vitality largely depend on diet.

A particular example.
Complaining, for example, about recurrent chronic tonsillitis, patients blame the tonsils themselves for the disease and want to remove them as soon as possible. This approach is not always correct. The cause of chronicity of infectious-allergic, infectious-inflammatory diseases is largely a disruption of the immune system. In such cases, immunomodulatory therapy is primarily indicated, that is, taking immunomodulator drugs, and no “special” food products or “detox complexes” are effective in this case.

What then does the immune diet and menu for immunity have to do with it? The fact is that without a rational diet there is no rational treatment, and a well-designed menu is a “substrate” for drug (immunomodulatory) therapy, which significantly increases its effectiveness, improves the general condition and resistance to infectious diseases.

Below is a menu for one week for immunity. The products of the proposed diet can be easily combined and replaced, therefore such a diet can be considered universal.

There is no point in buying various “healing complexes”, “detox cocktails for immunity”, “antioxidant granules” and other useless and expensive products in order to boost immunity. An effective immune diet is easily compiled from familiar foods that are familiar to everyone.
General rules for healthy diets:

  • A diet in the medical sense is a comprehensive, balanced diet that takes into account all energy needs.
  • The menu for immunity should be based on the formula of a balanced menu: averaged for people engaged in mental work, the daily requirement for proteins is 90-130 g (preferably 60% of animals), for fats - 70-140 g, for carbohydrates - 350-500 g Yes, there really should be a little more fat than protein - 1 to 1.1-1.3.
  • A diet to improve immunity for every day of the week involves a menu that has nothing to do with severe food restrictions and living in a semi-starved state. One-component diets (on Monday only apples, on Tuesday only kefir, etc.) should be forgotten: they do not contribute to health, they only weaken the immune system.
  • Avoid drinking stale, low-quality water.
  • The presence of ballast substances in the menu is mandatory. This is fiber that promotes rapid saturation, normalization of intestinal microflora, and stimulation of motor function of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Accounting for the interaction of various nutrients. For example, with excessive consumption of fats, calcium absorption deteriorates. At the same time, with a lack of the same fats, the absorption of vitamins is impaired.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as corticosteroid drugs, have a detrimental effect on the body's resistance and worsen the immune system. After taking such drugs, be sure to include a balanced menu.

If necessary, supplement the menu with complex vitamin preparations (you should consult your doctor before use). The lack of at least one vitamin has a negative impact on health, which is especially noticeable in the off-season - ARVI, general ailments. A healthy diet should cover the daily requirement for vitamins (average values ​​for the diet of young people engaged in mental work):

Authorized Products

According to nutritionists, dietetics is not strict food restrictions and fasting, but the development of balanced diets, so the list of allowed foods is quite wide. The diet for immunity involves the following menu.

Table of permitted products

The following products are allowed:

Fully or partially limited products

Many people refer to the principles of immune nutrition, which is correct: you should eat those foods to which there is no individual hypersensitivity.

Table of prohibited products

The menu restrictions are as follows:

Menu for immunity, proper nutrition

Some, wanting to lose weight quickly, significantly limit their diet and begin taking vitamin supplements in higher dosages. This approach is fundamentally wrong, it is not useful for the immune system, and such a “diet” will not bring anything other than dangerous health consequences. Even one large green apple, rich in vitamins, for breakfast and one yogurt for lunch are not enough.

People who are losing weight are often afraid of foods that are actually harmless. They are afraid of conservation, exclude sweets that contain food coloring from the menu, look for the notorious “non-GMO” inscription on food packaging, etc., although there is nothing wrong with such products. At the same time, they continue to reduce the share of fats and carbohydrates in the menu as much as possible, increasing the share of proteins, or switch to eating only juices, or practice eating only raw, unprocessed food. All this is categorically not recommended: along with your weight, your health will go away, albeit unnoticed and not always right away.

What to do to lose weight, but not lose vitality, tone and immunity? Menu for weight loss (can be modified):

In addition, for those who want to lose weight, it is useful to change their food intake in order to “train” biochemical and physiological processes and improve immunity. The simplest method is to eat frequently, at least 6 times a day. Menu with reduced energy value. Sometimes you can alternate loading and fasting (not food refusal) days, which creates jerky functional stimulation.

A program for strengthening immunity should begin with normalizing wakefulness and sleep, alternating work and rest, so as not to overload the body.
Below are sample menus for the week.

Monday

Morning: omelette, milk, steamed meatballs.
2 breakfast: pear.
Dinner: mushroom soup, dry bread, vegetable salad, you can also drink a glass of milk for lunch, eat a steamed chicken cutlet.
Snack: cereal bar.
Dinner: steamed chicken cutlets.

Tuesday

Morning: semolina porridge with fruit, beef cutlets.
2 breakfast: curd mass.
Dinner: chicken broth with egg and vermicelli, vegetable salad.
Snack: banana.
Dinner: stewed vegetables with a little oil added.

Wednesday

Morning: porridge with milk, omelette, beet salad.
2 breakfast: banana
Dinner: fish soup, dry bread.
Snack: cereal bar.
Dinner: fish casserole.

Thursday

Morning: baked avocado with egg, cucumber, dry bread, milk.
2 breakfast: curd mass.
Dinner: stewed beef with onions and gravy, dry buckwheat, vegetable salad.
Snack: fruit puree.
Dinner: carrot cutlets, stewed vegetables, kefir.

Friday

Morning: omelette, dry bread, soaked goji berries or green coffee.
2 breakfast: pear and banana.
Dinner: baked chicken drumsticks with zucchini and tomatoes, dry bread, vegetable salad.
Snack: yogurt.
Dinner: boiled beef, milk.

Saturday

Morning: 2 boiled chicken eggs, a glass of milk, beetroot and cabbage salad.
2 breakfast: curd mass, apple.
Dinner: fish casserole; salad of squid and cucumbers, some nuts, dried bread.
Snack: Fruit puree.
Dinner: vegetable cutlets, buckwheat, kefir

Sunday

Morning: porridge with milk; cabbage and carrot salad seasoned with a small amount of vegetable oil; tea with honey.
2 breakfast: banana.
Dinner: a few pieces of fatty red fish, rice.
Snack: cereal bar.
Dinner: chicken cutlets, vegetable salad, fiber mixed in juice.

Pros and cons

Plus diets for immunity:

  • after a few weeks the general condition improves;
  • strengthens immunity, vitality, appearance, first of all, what a person eats, therefore the key to health is balanced nutrition;
  • the ability to “gently” lose weight without serious stress on the body and a deficiency of vital nutrients, and therefore without deterioration of the immune system.

There is only one disadvantage of such a menu for immunity - if the initial diet was significantly different from the one proposed, then switching to a balanced diet is not easy.

Diets, unfortunately, are not a panacea and will not replace taking immunomodulators for immunity and preventive measures against infectious diseases, and food is not any natural antibiotic.

There is no medicine in the world that could prevent any infection. If people knew about it, there would be no queues at clinics and no sick patients. There are no magic pills to strengthen your immune system for life. Therefore, it is necessary to take care of your own health using other methods. One of the most effective is proper nutrition.

The benefits of products are no longer a secret for many people. However, few people know that with their help they can increase immunity, as well as strengthen it and thereby prevent many diseases. To become healthy, you need to eat healthy foods. Therefore, everyone should know what exactly they should eat first in order to avoid getting sick.

What does the immune system need?

Having information about what products to increase immunity in an adult, you can not only get rid of a chronic disease, but also improve your well-being. To do this, you need to learn how to correctly plan your daily diet. However, you should not think that products can cure everything. Eating the right food can improve your quality of life and prevent many diseases, but it is only one of the things that can affect the body.

When thinking about what foods to boost your immunity, you should remember that the food you eat will not fully work for the entire body. However, proper nutrition can normalize the activity of internal organs, which is especially important during epidemics and heavy physical and mental stress. This is why it is so important to know exactly what actions need to be taken to boost immunity:

Diet correction

Before deciding which foods to boost your immunity, you need to understand that for a healthy lifestyle you will have to completely change your idea of ​​nutrition. First of all, you should adhere to the following rules:

  • To maintain the tone of the immune system, you need to drink enough clean drinking water. Without it, the body will not be able to process food, as important chemical reactions will not occur.
  • Eat foods containing fiber. To fill the need for it, you should lean on foods of plant origin. To boost your immunity, you need to eat fruits and vegetables raw. Thanks to fiber, food will be digested faster. In addition, this component ensures stool regularity and normal intestinal microflora, has the ability to bind cholesterol and protect against cancer of the digestive system.
  • Don't forget about proteins and fats. When thinking about what foods to boost your immunity, you should definitely include protein foods in your diet, which strengthens muscles and blood vessels. In order for the endocrine glands to function well, it is necessary to consume healthy fats.

When adjusting your menu for the better, we must not forget about children. Their immune system also needs to be protected and strengthened. All parents should know which foods boost their child’s immunity. After all, the quality of life of the baby, as well as his future eating habits, depends only on them. By teaching children from an early age to eat properly, you can not only improve their immunity, but also protect them from possible gastrointestinal disorders, obesity and many other diseases.

Anyone who takes life seriously should know what foods can boost the immunity of a child and an adult. Only in this case can we count on improving the health of the new generation.

Protein foods to boost immunity

When thinking about what foods you should eat to boost your immunity, you cannot ignore protein foods of plant and animal origin. Proteins are a source of essential acids that are needed for the synthesis of immunoglobulin. Products containing them restore cells damaged by bacteria and infections. To increase and strengthen immunity, proteins must be present in the diet daily. Most of them are found in the following foods:

  • Seafood.
  • Meat.
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy products.
  • Cabbage.
  • Nuts.
  • Gribakh.
  • Bobovykh.

Every person who cares about themselves should know which foods boost immunity in adults. This is the only way to preserve your own health. By consuming at least one of the above products every day, you can improve your intestinal function and also strengthen your weakened immune system.

Foods high in zinc

Zinc is involved not only in the processes of hematopoiesis, bone formation, and the development of immunity, but also in the activity of the endocrine glands. Products containing this element help the body form new immune cells and phagocytes. By regularly eating foods with a high content of zinc, you can increase the benefits of vitamins A and C, which are immunostimulating substances, several times. The most zinc is found in the following foods:

  • Sea fish and seafood.
  • Meat.
  • Liver.
  • Oatmeal and other grains.
  • Sunflower seeds.
  • Nuts, legumes.
  • Gribakh.
  • Chicken yolks.
  • Cheese.
  • Green peas and beans.

The above products contain not only zinc, but also a lot of other useful vitamins and minerals. By replenishing your refrigerator with them every day, you don’t have to wonder what foods boost immunity in an adult. After all, there will always be healthy food on the table.

Products with selenium

This element is a powerful antioxidant. It takes part in the production of antibodies that fight bacteria and infections. Products containing selenium help the body absorb zinc well and also store it in reserve. Eating foods with selenium every day can improve brain activity, performance, and improve sleep. To saturate yourself with this element, you need to eat fish, meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, cereals, and mushrooms. To compensate for the lack of selenium, you can take brewer's yeast in capsules. It is best to do this in courses so that the body does not get used to the constant oversaturation of useful substances.

Boosting immunity with iodized foods

Eating foods high in iodine is good for the thyroid gland. It also has the ability to produce hormones that are responsible for protecting the immune system. Food saturated with iodine should be present on the table of every person who wants to boost their immunity with proper nutrition. First of all, you should pay attention to the following products:

  • Seafood.
  • Fish.
  • Sea kale.
  • Milk.
  • Vegetables.
  • Green.
  • Eggs.

All of the above products are the basis of nutrition for almost every person. But sometimes many people forget about the benefits they bring to the body in their pure form. When trying to strengthen your immune system, you need to try to expose healthy foods to heat treatment as little as possible. This mainly applies to vegetables, nuts and herbs. In its raw form, this food will be much more beneficial.

The role of lacto- and bifidobacteria in immunity

In addition to knowing what foods to boost an adult’s immunity, we must not forget about the role of beneficial bacteria. The healthy intestinal microflora completely depends on their quantity. Lacto- and bifidobacteria are involved in the formation of the human immune system, and also cleanse the gastrointestinal tract from harmful infections. Thanks to them, a protective favorable environment is created, which promotes the proliferation of cells that protect the body from diseases.

Bifidobacteria kill microbes that come with food, improve well-being and function of internal organs. Beneficial lacto- and bifidobacteria are found in fermented milk foods: kefir, whey, fermented baked milk, cottage cheese. There are also enough of them in homemade kvass, sauerkraut, and pickled apples.

Vitamin products to boost immunity

The fact that vitamins strengthen the immune system is known to everyone. However, few people have information about which vitamins help the body more than others. Not all of them are aimed at increasing and strengthening the immune system. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the benefits of certain vitamins and what foods to boost immunity.

Strengthening the body with vitamin A

The role of this vitamin is very important. It not only strengthens the immune system, but also helps improve the quality of the skin, protects the mucous membrane from drying out, cracks and wounds. Thanks to vitamin A, harmful bacteria do not penetrate the tissues of internal organs. An important factor is that this vitamin is involved in the work of phagocyte cells and also has an antioxidant effect. By protecting the body from free radicals, vitamin A prevents the development of many diseases. Foods saturated with it:

  • Fruits: mangoes, apricots, apples, grapes, melon, cherries.
  • Vegetables: pumpkin, carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, fresh peas, cabbage.
  • Berries: rose hips, sea buckthorn.
  • Green.
  • Protein products of animal origin: sea fish, liver, milk, cheese, cottage cheese, butter.

To make it easier to remember information about which foods quickly boost immunity, you can write down a small reminder for yourself on a sticky note and attach it with a magnet to the refrigerator. When compiling a list of these products, you need to make a note that all vegetables and fruits that are yellow and orange are rich in vitamin A. It is also found in herbs. Therefore, instead of coffee and carbonated drinks, you should lean on herbal and berry teas made from mint and chamomile, as well as dried rose hips and sea buckthorn.

The famous vitamin C protects your health

Unfortunately, not everyone knows what effect vitamins have on the immune system. However, when wondering what products can boost the immunity of an adult or child, everyone will choose citrus fruits. Having heard complaints about a cold or flu, any doctor will prescribe appropriate medications to combat the disease. Moreover, in addition to medications, he will also recommend that the patient start consuming as much vitamin C as possible. No other vitamin is as popular among doctors as this one. And not in vain.

Vitamin C works real miracles with the human body. It makes it resistant to all adverse environmental factors, which often become the culprit of most infectious diseases. It is often recommended as a preventative drug for adults and children. Sufficient amounts of vitamin C can even improve school performance. That is why, when thinking about what foods boost a child’s immunity, every parent makes the first choice in favor of foods rich in this vitamin.

Daily consumption of products containing it promotes the production of protective immune cells, strengthens the vascular system, and also protects against harmful free radicals.

A huge amount of vitamin C is found in oranges, lemons, grapefruits, tangerines, kiwis, currants, raspberries, strawberries, persimmons, sweet bell peppers, sauerkraut and tomatoes. To strengthen the immune system during an epidemic of a viral infection, it is necessary to drink teas with a high content of vitamin C as often as possible. These include infusions with sea buckthorn, hawthorn, rose hips, and rowan.

B vitamins

Every person sooner or later asks himself the question: what foods can boost immunity and strengthen the body's defenses? In addition to the above beneficial substances, you should remember the importance of B vitamins. These include: folic acid, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, thiamine, pyridoxine, and cyanocobalamin. They stimulate the immune system during stressful periods and during recovery from illness. B vitamins are involved in the production of cells that fight infection. Therefore, when thinking about strengthening your immune system, you need to include the following foods in your diet:

  • All types of legumes.
  • Nuts and sunflower seeds.
  • Wheat sprouts.
  • Cereals.
  • Coarse bread.
  • Chicken eggs.
  • All types of greens: spinach, parsley, dill, lettuce.

In addition to the above products, you should also drink teas with a high content of B vitamins. They should be brewed from dry inflorescences of ginseng, echinacea, licorice, red clover, dandelions, St. John's wort and celandine. These plants can be used to make healing infusions. Doctors recommend drinking them not only to boost immunity, but also during the course of illness to speed up the recovery stage.

Boosting immunity during pregnancy

An expectant mother should always take care of her own health. After all, the baby’s condition depends on her immunity. Good health is the key to a successful pregnancy and easy childbirth. Therefore, while carrying a child, it is necessary to eat healthy food and try to strengthen the immune system in every possible way. Every woman should know what foods can boost immunity during pregnancy.

The list of healthy foods clearly does not include sweet soda, fast food, too spicy, fried or salty. It is also necessary to limit the consumption of sugar and flour products. To strengthen the immune system, a pregnant woman should eat fresh or stewed vegetables, sweet fruits, cereals, berries, protein foods, and healthy fats. The latter include cold-pressed vegetable oils, which are preferably added to vegetable salads, fish oil, nuts and seeds.

By eating this way, the expectant mother begins to look better, which also affects the process of bearing the baby. Health always begins with what a person eats. By eating healthy foods, you can reduce the possibility of contracting a viral infection several times.

Knowing which foods can boost an adult’s immunity, you can not only strengthen the body’s defenses, but also improve your well-being. A healthy diet increases metabolism and affects the functioning of all internal organs.