From turmeric to yogurt, we discuss four foods that you must include in your diet.

What we eat is the key to supporting our immune system and living a long, healthy life. Ensuring that you are eating a balanced diet, which includes a mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats & along with vitamins & mineral-rich food is very crucial. Avoid processed & high sugar food is important, eating specific foods that promote a healthy immune system is important to avoid diseases. Here are some foods to boost immunity that you should include in your diet.

1. >Lean Meat and Legumes:
   Protein is important for enhancing immunity because it helps to form the cells that the immune system functions on. Include lean meat like chicken, fish & eggs or plant based protein like lentils, beans, pulses & legumes which help in boosting immunity. They should make up 1/4th of your plate in each main meal (breakfast/ lunch/ dinner)
2. Vegetables & Citrus Fruits:
   The inclusion of citrus fruits in one’s meal is a sure shot way of solidifying your immunity. Fruits like oranges, lemons, tangerines & vegetables like broccoli, fiber & flavonoids, and citrus fruits keep one hydrated & have a low-calorie count.
3. Turmeric:
   Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory qualities. It has been observed in studies that calcumin, the active ingredient that gives turmeric its immune building properties, is a naturally occurring chemical that gives turmeric its distinctive yellow colour & is useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric has flavonoid, zinc, ascorbic acid & potassium.
4. Yogurt & Fermented Foods:
   Probiotic food items like yogurt, tempeh, kefir, sauerkraut and Indian pickles are highly effective in maintaining a healthy gut.

There is a saying that you cannot control everything in your life, but you can control what you put in your body. So eat with the thought & the next time you plan your meals, make extra efforts to include more of the above mentioned foods for a natural immune boost.