While it’s possible to catch a cold at any time of year, rates of cold and flu leap upwards during the winter months while our immune system is more vulnerable, and can spread quickly.
And while this pandemic is going on, it’s even more important than ever to have not only a good immune system but a great one!
Here are snacks that you can eat at any time of the day that helps reinforce and strengthen your immune system.
1. Salsa and red pepper sticks
Now, with this tip we have done a disclaimer: Don’t just go for your regular grocery store salsa that could be high in sugar and salt.
Also, do not pair the salsa with chips that are high in carbs and salt either.
Tomatoes are rich in the antioxidant lycopene, a type of plant pigment which has been shown to enhance immune function by protecting virus-fighting cells from damage.
In a study led by researchers from the Federal Research Centre for Nutrition in Germany, male subjects supplementing their diet with a daily glass of tomato juice a day showed positive modulations in markers of immune system function.
Cooked tomatoes contain more lycopene than raw, so go for a salsa which is based on cooked rather than fresh tomatoes, or make your own by cooking tomatoes, chili and garlic, and a small drizzle of olive oil – the fat boosts absorption of lycopene.