While the wrath of coronavirus continues to unleash its fury, you must be careful of another menace lurking around-Influenza A. It is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system and may be accompanied with fever-like symptoms. The good news is that you can prevent this disease from affecting your child’s health by including immunity-boosting foods to eat when you have fever.
Typically, these immunity-boosters are rich in nutrients and high in antioxidants; and help improve resistance and boost the immune system to help fight the onslaught of viruses.
The best part is that most of these items are readily available in your kitchen.
10 Immunity-boosting Foods To Fight Fever
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Yoghurt
Not only is yoghurt packed with vitamins and protein, but it’s also a source of lactobacillus, a probiotic, that helps to fight infection and boost your immunity. Probiotics in yoghurt inhibit a range of pathogenic bacteria and yeasts in the gut. They also show potential in preventing allergies such as eczema, particularly in children.
Almond
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Almonds are key to a healthy immune system and it has vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant to support pulmonary immune function. Vitamin E is also known to offer protection against infections caused by viruses and bacteria. They are a source of 15 nutrients such as magnesium, protein, riboflavin, zinc, and others. Plus, they are a convenient snack that can be eaten anywhere, any time of the day.
Broccoli
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Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, and fibre and many other antioxidants, broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables. It is supercharged with minerals as well and can be included in a variety of dishes for kids. You can eat it steamed, or cooked in spices or add it to rice.
Spinach
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This green leafy vegetable is packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants, which increases the infection-fighting ability of our immune systems. Remember that spinach needs to be cooked a little so that all the nutrients remain intact. If your kid isn’t particularly fond of spinach, you can even make cutlets or mis it with rice and/or in dim-sums.
Garlic
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Garlic’s immune-boosting properties seem to come from a heavy concentration of sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin. Studies have shown that garlic reduces the risk of catching infections and also reduces the severity of symptoms.
Apples
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They don’t say “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” for no reason! Fruits like apples are known to create a stronger immune system, which in turn can decrease the risk of diseases like the flu. Apple skins contain quercetin, a type of plant pigment flavonoid that helps boost your immune system. Plus, you can use it in sweet as well as in savoury dishes.
Mushroom
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Experts affirm that the fungus helps to speed up the reproduction and activity of white blood cells, increasing the body’s immunity. Some mushrooms have more potassium than a banana. They are also an excellent source of iron, fibre and one of the best plant sources of vitamin D you can eat. So think not, and add mushrooms to your daily diet!
Beef
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It is powerful preventive food for influenza A, because it contains zinc that promotes the production of white blood cells in the blood. It also prevents toxins and harmful bacteria from entering the body. A child, therefore, should eat beef to keep the body warm and effectively prevent the flu.
Chicken soup
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When you are sick and down with a sore throat or mild fever, sometimes all you may want is just a bowl of plain chicken soup. It is extremely beneficial which it comes to boosting immunity and may help lower inflammation, which could improve cold-like symptoms. Poultry, such as chicken and turkey are also high in vitamin B-6, making them crucial to be included in your child’s diet, at least once or twice a week.
Shell Fish
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Shellfish is packed with zinc and our bodies require an adequate amount of it so that our immune cells can function as intended. Some varieties of shellfish that are high in zinc include crab, lobsters and oysters. However, avoid shellfish if your child develops allergies after consuming them.
Other than diet, it is very important to oversee that your child gets adequate sleep and engages in light exercises. They also play an equal role in immunity building. Plus, always keep an eye on its common symptoms, including fever, coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, fatigue, and chills.
Sometimes, influenza A symptoms may resolve on their own. However, if symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, schedule a visit with your doctor. Type A influenza is a contagious viral infection that can cause life-threatening complications if left untreated. If the symptoms are visible, don’t ignore them.
Disclaimer: All of these foods should be consumed in moderation. When dealing with a serious illness or diagnosis, always consult your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.
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