Facing the epidemic, everyone is very fearful. Now, the epidemic has been going on for three years, and most people seem to have already gotten used to it and have taken protective measures. As the weather slowly turns cooler, the epidemic seems to be rearing its head again.
We often say that immunity is the “best doctor in the world”. Professor Zhang Wenhong, head of the Infectious Diseases Department of Huashan Hospital, affiliated with Fudan University, once said, “The most effective medicine is human immunity.”
In the face of viral infections, many people remain unharmed, mostly due to their own immunity. Immunity is crucial for the body as it can combat bacteria and viruses.
Immunity is a physiological function of the human body. Depending on the immune system, the body can distinguish between “self” and “enemy”. It’s like a national defense force, ready to defend the country against both external invaders and internal troublemakers, maintaining national stability.
When the immune system detects viruses or bacteria entering the body, it will act to eliminate them as much as possible. However, sometimes immunity can be compromised, leading to a gradual decrease in the body’s ability to protect against bacterial invasions, increasing the risk of viral infections.
When the body’s immunity decreases, one may frequently experience weakness, fatigue, lack of appetite; sleep disturbances, mental fatigue; and a susceptibility to infectious diseases. Therefore, in daily life, one should actively adjust their diet, especially during the outbreak, by consuming the following types of foods, which may help activate their own immunity and reduce the risk of bacterial infections.
Zhang Wenhong: Immunity is the best doctor! During the epidemic, consuming these 7 foods may help fight viruses
â‘ Eggs
Eggs are highly nutritious, with nutrients that are easily digested and absorbed. Eggs are rich in protein, with an absorption rate of over 90%.
It is recommended to eat 1-2 boiled eggs a day, which helps absorb the nutrients and activate one’s immunity. However, frying or scrambling eggs may lead to excessive fat intake. It is best to retain the original flavor of the food to absorb more nutrients.
â‘¡ Fish
Fish is very popular, low in calories but rich in protein. The phosphorus in fish can stimulate brain development, and making fish soup can release nutrients more efficiently.
If possible, prepare crucian carp tofu soup or plain stewed fish soup for your family daily. The simpler the taste, the better, to absorb the nutrients in the fish and boost immunity.
â‘¢ Milk
Milk is a long-time favorite beverage. If the body lacks nutrients such as calcium, iron, and zinc, it can weaken immunity. Professor Zhang suggests drinking more milk because the immunoglobulins in milk can enhance the activity of immune cells, significantly boosting immunity.
However, milk is not suitable for everyone. Those with lactose intolerance are advised to avoid pure milk and opt for yogurt instead. Milk is best consumed at room temperature, not overly heated or refrigerated, to reduce damage to the spleen and stomach.
â‘£ Meat
Meat is a highly nutritious food, but excessive consumption can lead to obesity, increasing the risk of various chronic diseases and compromising immunity.
Over-restricting one’s diet can gradually lower immunity, making the body weaker in hungry states, providing an opportunity for viruses. Therefore, a reasonable intake of meat helps meet nutritional needs and strengthens the body.
⑤ Fungi
Fungi are rich in vitamins B and D, which effectively boost immunity. Mushrooms contain special health-promoting components, with mushroom polysaccharides having strong antiviral properties by inhibiting the proliferation of harmful cells.
It is suggested to eat more fungi in daily life to activate immunity, especially during the epidemic, to enhance immunity and combat bacteria and viruses for better health.
â‘¥ Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits are highly nutritious, with leafy greens containing anthocyanins to help eliminate free radicals in the body and protect the immune system.
Fruits contain abundant vitamins and various mineral elements, effectively cleansing the body of harmful substances, making the body stronger. Consuming an adequate amount of fresh vegetables daily is beneficial for overall health.
⑦ Honey
Honey is rich in nutrients, meeting nutritional needs. When facing constipation, some people choose to drink a glass of honey water every morning to lubricate the intestines.
The nutrients in honey help protect the immune system, especially during challenging times. Consuming nutritious foods can significantly enhance one’s health and effectively combat bacteria and viruses.
During this special period, it is essential to cultivate good habits to avoid compromising your health. In addition to adjusting your diet, engage in regular physical exercise, aerobic activities, to increase oxygen levels in the body and protect the immune system against bacteria and viruses.
Ensure an adequate amount of sleep, entering deep sleep before 11 p.m., and getting 7-8 hours of rest, to maintain the normal functioning of all organs, improving overall well-being. Finally, remember to regulate your mindset, especially during the epidemic. A positive mindset helps improve the internal body environment, maintains a positive energy, and enhances successful coping with the epidemic.
