Your immune system is your best friend for getting through the cold season in good health. After all, it functions - to put it simply - like a protective shield against disease. For this reason alone, it has an enormous amount to do and does a great job. Provided you also take good care of it. Because only with a healthy and strengthened immune system are you armed against winter challenges.
Good for the soul is also good for your immune system
As always in Ayurveda, when it comes to a healthy immune system, it is important to ensure that body, mind and soul are in balance. Because everything that weakens your immune system will eventually take its revenge. This includes, for example, too much stress, too much hectic and restless sleep. Everything in your life is connected, so as soon as one part is impaired, the whole is affected.
With the days getting shorter and the temperatures getting colder, it's good for the soul to be able to enjoy the beauties of the season. For example, a walk in the autumn leaves, a good book - instead of binge watching - in combination with your cuddly blanket, cat and a hot tea or pleasant meditation sessions in the warm light of a candle just before bedtime. Moreover, because autumn is dominated by Vata dosha, maintaining regularities and rituals is equally crucial. Above all, you can give your immune system a helping hand with the right diet.
Immune system building with the right diet
In line with the season, it is now very advisable to eat regularly and especially warm. This stimulates your digestive fire "Agni", whereby your metabolism works better. Everything that could disturb or irritate it is ultimately not good for your immune system. Thank nature that we are surrounded by true immune boosters, which we can use deliciously prepared or integrated into our daily meal to build up the immune system properly. Fresh, untreated organic vegetables, processed directly by you for home cooking, are easier to digest than packaged, frozen foods that have additives to make them last longer. It is always better to shop locally and also seasonally. How you can further fuel your digestive fire "Agni", you will learn here.
Spices that boost your immune system
With the right spices, you not only bring more flavor to your food, but also make it easier to digest, as they can stimulate the metabolism. The following spices are true immune boosters:
Turmeric
Beautiful in color, special in taste: Especially the ingredient curcumin is said to have a detoxifying and warming effect, which has a positive effect on the immune system. Turmeric can be used in soups, as a spice on baked vegetables or, among other things, in the preparation of spreads. Especially popular as an ingredient in golden milk. A warming, delicious drink that, in combination with ginger, really does your immune system good.
Cumin
The aromatic spice has a very high and diverse mineral content, including iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium - an all-round booster that you can use regularly in your dishes.
Cinnamon
A truly sensual yet delicious spice that not only has a calming effect due to its ingredients, but also aids digestion and thus supports the immune system.
Ginger
Slightly spicy yet delicious in sweet and sour. Ginger warms, promotes blood circulation and is also said to be anti-inflammatory. It can be used in a variety of ways, including in soups or even in curry. Its strong, refreshing flavor makes it a true energy booster. A common tip for strengthening the immune system is to drink a hot cup of ginger water every morning. Works wonders!
Foods that strengthen your immune system
What should be in your pantry now? First and foremost, easily digestible yet nourishing foods such as potato, sweet potato, pumpkin, beet, parsnip or fennel, which you can turn into delicious meals with ghee or coconut oil, depending on your taste. Sweet fruits such as ripe apples, pears as well as pomegranate can be incorporated in the morning in porridge or even as a flavor contrast in the main meals. Engaging with your immune system in the form of creative delicacies can also warm your heart and keep you in a good mood. Want some recipe ideas? How about our own cookbook for inspiration? Available directly in our online store. Perfect for warm get-togethers with your favorite people. After all, what could be better for your immune system than enjoying good, healthy food with lots of love and warmth?