The first shower of the rainy season makes everyone’s heart sing and dance. In this beautiful season when nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also. However, focusing on all things which help in building immunity and fighting off any pesky illness that comes its way is quite crucial. Take a good hard look at the food you are putting in your body. Avoid eating those foods which make your gut unhealthy and cause inflammation in the body. Otherwise, your immune system would not function as it should.

Few food toxins which may sabotage your immune system include:

Fast food: Fast food contains trans-fat. Trans-fat is manufactured fat created during food processing. It is commonly found in pastries, pizzas, crackers, cookies, fried pies etc. Many fast foods contain added refined sugar. No amount of trans-fat and refined sugar is healthy or good. Also, the combination of fat, sugar and salt can make fast food tastier but dangerous for healthy functioning of the immune system. Junk food lacks all the necessary nutrients and it may be the reason behind your fatigue and feeble immunity.

Fried foods: Fried foods instigate an inflammatory reaction. They are worse for your cholesterol and capable of weakening your immunity. Fried foods are loaded with rich sources of saturated fats. Many also contain trans-fat which can be harmful to the immune system. High-fat foods negatively affect our body response to infection meaning that our body would not be well prepared for when a foreign invader enters in our body’s immunity.

Red meat: Red meat contains a special sugar which is naturally produced by carnivores but not omnivores such as humans. Eating red meat in large amounts can sabotage your immune system.

Refined sugar: Refined sugar inhibits the immune cells responsible for attacking bacteria and affect your immune system. It contributes more calories but few nutrients. Consuming large amounts of sugar can remarkably reduce your white blood cells ability to destroy germs.

Refined flours and grains: Refined flours such as all-purpose flour and refined grains such as enriched pasta contain few nutrients and little fibre. These refined flours and grains quickly convert to glucose in our body when they are digested and thus contribute to the increase in the amount of sugar found in our daily diet. Eating refined flours and grains curbs immune system cells that attack bacteria.

Excess alcohol consumption: Excess consumption of alcohol can lead to immune deficiency and increase the susceptibility of certain diseases. It impairs the immune system and interferes with the body’s ability to fight off infections.

Do not bombard your body with more and more salt, sugar and fat especially in the rainy season. Eating these foods make your immunity weak and then you are not able to fight off bugs like cold and flu. Keep your gut healthy so that your immune system can function at its best.

Other things to be taken care of to strengthen the immune system are:

· Keep your body hydrated. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day.

· Keep stress at bay. Stress can have a major negative impact on your immune system.

· Have adequate quality sleep. It is essential for immune system health.

· Eat nutritious food preferably homemade. Try to consume a balanced diet every day.

· Take proper care of hygiene. Do not allow germs and bacteria to grow in unhygienic conditions.

· Exercise daily. Go for a walk, do yoga or workout in a gym for 30 to 45 minutes.

· Quit smoking.

· Avoid consuming excessive alcohol.

Take good care and enjoy the beautiful season!