Spices That Support the Immune System

Spices That Support the Immune System As the weather begins to cool, illnesses such as the common cold and flu tend to increase. Temperature fluctuations caused by seasonal changes and the transition to in-person education in schools create conditions for disease transmission. Maintaining a strong immune system plays a key role against all illnesses, including Covid-19. Healthy nutrition and proper food choices are important in strengthening body resistance. For example, spices used to flavor food actually support immunity as much as nutrients do. Uz. Dyt. E. Tuğba Kumaş from the Nutrition and Dietetics Department at Memorial Şişli Hospital provided information on the health benefits of spices.   Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice rich in vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene, vitamin C and B group vitamins. Turmeric has antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Through these effects, turmeric protects and strengthens the immune system. Due to the curcumin polyphenol it contains, it has protective and therapeutic effects in various health conditions such as various cancers, antilipidemia, Parkinson's disease, gastrointestinal system problems, Alzheimer's, diabetes, obesity and multiple sclerosis. Ginger: Ginger contains vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, potassium, sodium and phosphorus. Experimental studies have found that ginger's antioxidant effects are comparable to standard antioxidant substances. It supports immunity through its vitamin C content. Ginger prevents the common cold and helps in its treatment. It is an expectorant and helps with cough. During cold and flu season, it can be consumed as a protective measure against illnesses. Through its antioxidant effects, studies have shown that it acts as a protective barrier for the immune system, protects against cancer and has anti-aging effects. In type 2 diabetic patients, it has regulated insulin resistance and provided positive results. Thyme: Thyme is primarily used as an aromatic plant in world cuisines, but it also stands out as a medicinal plant. Thyme is a rich source of fiber, calcium, iron, manganese and vitamins A, B6 and C. It is a potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent and through these properties supports the immune system. It is particularly beneficial in upper respiratory tract diseases such as flu, bronchitis, sore throat, cough and common cold. Mint: It exhibits anti-microbial effects. It is an excellent source of manganese, vitamin A and C. It is also rich in folate, iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B2. Mint, which contains abundant vitamins A and C, supports immunity in both dried and fresh form. Mint tea, which has infection-fighting effects, allows for a healthy and productive winter season. Clove: Clove is rich in vitamins A, K, E and B6, as well as the minerals calcium, manganese, potassium and sodium. Clove has high antioxidant power and is an excellent pain reliever, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. The vitamins K and C it contains play a role in supporting the immune system. Consuming clove in cold weather when body resistance is low provides protection against many seasonal ailments. Red Pepper: Red pepper is one of the largest sources of dietary antioxidants (flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, vitamin A, ascorbic acid, tocopherols). Red pepper is also used as a natural antibacterial agent. Through these properties, it supports and strengthens immunity.