SI call it food chemistry and teach you how use nutritional elements to prevent seasonal ailments. A fundamental principle that allows you to prevent and combat colds, sore throats and the classic autumn flu: «To “keep them at bay” it is useful in this period choose foods that fight and help prevent any pathologies» he specifies Paolo Bianchini, nutritional and nutraceutical consultant.
Seasonal ailments, vegetables and fruit that strengthen the immune system
The most famous are oranges which play a fundamental role in preventing colds. In fact, it is well known that a healthy and balanced diet, rich not only in… seasonal ingredients but also foods rich in vitamins and properties that strengthen the immune system. Surely the indispensable element during the winter season is the C vitamin: ascorbic acid is in fact the best defense weapon against seasonal ailments and the most precious source certainly remains fruit, like the very rich kiwi and papaya if you don’t always want to focus on classic citrus fruits. As experts explain, the daily requirement is 90 mg for men and 60 mg for women.
In the vegetable department, however, this season Broccoli and Brussels sprouts should not be underestimated, but also spinach, soncino and dandelion, both raw: «As regards quantities, broccoli contains 93mg of the vitamin while Brussels sprouts 85 mg. Also not to be underestimated are black cabbage, 120gr and rocket with its 110mg. Furthermore, all these ingredients contain the greatest number of nutrients considered essential for health because they are also rich in potassium, calcium and phosphorus and vitamins A and K” explains Dr. Bianchini.
Grandma’s broth, yes or no?
Is it true that grandma’s classic broth is a real panacea in these cases? “Real. Meat broth, whether chicken or beef, is one perfect source of useful nutrients to tone our natural defense system. It contains proteins, fats, vitamins and substances such as creatine, xanthine, mineral salts, such as iron, calcium, selenium, zinc, magnesium and potassium.”
Among the most classic and best remedies of the case, it can also be prepared with vegetables rich in vitamin C as well as with the addition of garlic and onion because they have antibiotic and anti-mucolytic properties: «Thegarlic it is a source of antioxidants and precursors of a molecule, allicin, with antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal activity. While the onions they prevent and fight nasal and respiratory congestion, have antihistamine, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Among the flavorings, turmeric, chili pepper and pepper are also very suitable for ailments».
If you also want to add a little rice or spelled, together with a drizzle of olive oil and some cheese it becomes a truly complete meal. It also helps keep the body perfectly hydrated and ensures a warming effect.
Ginger and herbal teas, a great seasonal classic
Ginger and herbal teas are evergreen in this period. In addition to cooking, ginger is particularly suitable in herbal teas that help fight colds: «It is in fact rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, micronutrients such as magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, fiber and water.to. Many in vivo studies have demonstrated the ability of this root to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce the induction of inflammatory genes” explains the expert.
Although not miraculous, either However, herbal teas can help in these cases, especially if cinnamon-based: «Cinnamon is antiseptic, bactericidal and disinfectant and is particularly effective in combating diseases of the oral cavity and respiratory tract. For this reason it is an excellent remedy in cases of sore throat or cold, especially if combined with ginger.”
The last doubt: eggs, yes or no?
Often set aside during the flu, in reality even the eggs play a fundamental role in these cases because they have many nutritional properties and supply the body with vitamins and mineral salts lost during the disease: «Not only do they satisfy the needs of the cells but, being also rich in micronutrients, they also support the functioning of the immune system» concludes the expert.
iO Donna © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED