To maintain the temperature during the freezing winter days and ensure the body’s resistance against colds and flu so common this time of year, just blanket is not enough. See which foods are best ordered to provide warm meals on your winter menu.
Best Winter Foods
Acerola
It is a source of vitamin C that maximizes immune cell function and assists in the maintenance of mucous membranes, including the respiratory tract. It can speed up the cold and flu recovery process. Other interesting dietary sources of this vitamin are strawberry, mandarin, citrus fruits (lemon, orange, lime), kiwi, cashew, tomato and green peppers.
Broccoli
Excellent source of beta carotene, essential for the health of the respiratory tract mucous membranes. Its deficiency reduces the number of defense cells and increases the susceptibility of bacterial or viral infections. Other foods rich in beta carotene are pumpkin, apricot, liver, carrot and melon.
Bean
Rich in amino acids that are related to the production of antibodies and zinc that prevents immune diseases and the decrease of blood lymphocytes, cells that defend the body against mainly viral invaders.
Garlic
Its main contribution comes from bioactive compounds, such as sulfur compounds with potential antiviral effect. Foods like onions or broccoli also have these substances, but garlic is present in three times more quantities.
Yogurt
It is considered a probiotic food because it has living microorganisms (lactobacilli and bifidobacteria), involved in the development of antibodies and activation of lymphocytes that can contribute to strengthen the immune response against viruses.
Chicory
It has probiotic dietary fibers that provide colonization of the intestinal tract with beneficial bacteria, which contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system and reduces the risk of diseases such as flu and colds.
Mushrooms
They have beta-glucans that stimulate the immune system. Research has shown activity of mushroom extracts against bacteria such as E. coli, staphylococcus and tuberculosis branches, as well as against a wide variety of viruses, smallpox and influenza viruses. The most popular are champignon , however the maitake and shitake species are the best known and researched medicinal mushrooms.
Whey Protein
It has bioactive compounds that provide lymphocyte stimulation (defense cells) and antibody production. Because it is more easily digested and absorbed, it is suggested that its action is highly beneficial to the human body before, during and after periods of intense and / or prolonged exercise.
Nutritional Tips
To make soups more nutritious, add watercress or spinach leaves, broccoli or cauliflower flowers, and strips of cabbage.
Herbs such as basil, oregano, rosemary, parsley and chives in addition to increasing the nutritional value, also provide delicious aroma and unusual flavor to dishes and soups.
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