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With heavy downpours outside providing relief from the scorching heat, it would be wrong to deny that we are not enjoying the weather. However, with high humidity and moisture in the air, we often fall prey to several diseases like stomach ailments, poor skin health, viral infections, and others.
Thus, it is essential to strengthen our immunity, especially during the monsoon. Although we include ample amounts of vitamins and minerals in our diet, the role of pH balance in our body is often overlooked. For this, we need to include alkaline foods in our diet. Alkaline foods are known for maintaining pH balance in the body. Incorporating alkaline foods into our diet can boost our body's immunity to a greater level.
What Is An Alkaline Diet?
All foods can be divided into acidic, neutral, and alkaline categories. What we eat always impacts the pH balance (measurement of acidity or alkalinity) of our body. It must be noted that food after consumption, when digested, leaves an acidic, alkaline, or neutral residue. Acidic residue can harm health, whereas alkaline residue may benefit in many ways, including boosting immunity. Food components that leave an alkaline residue are calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Alkaline is typically plant-based and rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
We have jotted down some alkaline foods that are excellent for boosting your immunity. Take a look:
- Leafy Greens
To boost your immunity, incorporate leafy greens like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, collard greens, arugula, and lettuce into your diet. These alkaline foods are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and magnesium. The existence of antioxidants protects cells from damage, improves digestion, and boosts immunity.
- Cruciferous Vegetables
These vegetables are loaded with Vitamins C, K, folate, and fibre. Vegetables like Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain sulforaphane, which has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Citrus Fruits
Fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits contain Vitamin C, which is known for its powerful antioxidant properties. It speeds up the process of the production of white blood cells, which prevents infections and illness.
- Berries
You can often binge on berries like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. They are filled with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and flavonoids. They are known to neutralise harmful free radicals and support the immune system. Besides, they are low in sugar and high in fibre, making them a perfect choice for maintaining a pH balance in the body during the monsoon.
- Avocado
It is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which play a crucial role in reducing inflammation. It contains vitamins C, E, and K, as well as potassium, which supports immune boosting and takes care of overall health.
- Garlic
The presence of a compound known as allicin helps boost immunity in the body. It also has antimicrobial properties, which are why it has been used for centuries in Indian households. It acts as a natural remedy for various ailments.
- Onions And Tomatoes
For every Indian curry, these two items form the base. Apart from flavour, they add health-benefiting alkaline properties to our food. Containing antioxidants, they help bolster our immunity.
- Almonds
They are a rich source of Vitamin E and antioxidants. They help protect the body’s cells from damage. They also contain healthy fats and proteins, thus contributing to overall health.
