Build the fighter in you

Naini Setalvad urges us to try her immunity-building diet to overcome the onslaughts of virulent pathogens

- Naini Setalvad

We all know about the disease COVID-19 and how it has taken over the lives of every human being on this planet. Yes, the virus (SARS-CoV 2) is spreading like wildfire and it can have its chain broken by social distancing and staying at home. However, I have to share with you that we can also add a few foods to our diet, which will help us build a stronger immune system.

I firmly believe that having a solid immune system will allow you and your family to withstand this virus as well as any other virus. Let me impart, the ways by which this can be done daily, very easily.

The first and most important thing that I want you to keep in mind is water. Our bodies are made up mostly of water, so the more water we give it, the easier it is for us to fight off any virus. Please make sure to sip on plenty of warm water throughout the day as it will really help you. You can also add hot fluids like soups, rasam (spicy South Indian soup), or herbal teas. These will keep you hydrated, help mucus to flow, and keep the throat moist, thus flushing out toxins from your body. Throughout the day, gargle with hot water containing natural salts and turmeric powder to keep the throat bacteria-free.

Another important nutrient that helps the body to fight off infections or viruses is vitamin C. Vitamin C strengthens white blood cells, which are essential for fighting any infection. I insist that you should have as much lemon as you can during the day as it is one of the best natural sources of vitamin C. You can add lemon to your water or simply squeeze lemon juice and take a lemon shot. It is very easy to incorporate lemon into your daily food. Just squeeze lemon on all your food before eating it.