Immune Boosting Beverages
As we head into flu season on top of a lingering pandemic, many of us are interested in strengthening our immune systems. Diet plays an important part in immunity, as what we consume provides us with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help ward off sickness. Sometimes it is easier to get a dose of goodness in a beverage versus food, so we found five immunity-boosting drinks to plan into your week.
Kefir
Kefir is a creamy beverage, similar to yogurt, that is made from fermented goat or cow milk. Like most fermented foods, it is an excellent source of probiotics, which work to keep your gut biome healthy. Specifically, kefir contains a bacteria called Lactobacillus kefiri, which may help protect us from infections. More and more research is pointing to gut health as a primary focus in the quest to boost our immune systems. In addition to beneficial bacteria, many brands of kefir are fortified with Vitamin D, another cornerstone of a healthy immune system.
Aqua Fresca
Aqua Fresca is a beverage that is popular in Central America and Mexico. It is a blend of lime juice, whole fruits, and water, and it is delicious. The drink is high in Vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that lends immunity support.
Here is a simple recipe for an Aqua Fresca:
Instructions: Add to a blender a cup of fruit (for a generous dose of Vitamin C use oranges, strawberries, or pineapple) the juice of half of a lime, and 1 cup of water. Blend on high and enjoy. If you prefer a more diluted and bubbly version, add some plain sparkling water.
Chia Fruit Refresher
Zinc is a mineral often mentioned in the arsenal of cold and flu-fighting weapons. Chia seeds are loaded with zinc – just two tablespoons of the tiny seeds provide 12% of the recommended daily amount of zinc.
Chia seeds can be added to a smoothie or sprinkled on oatmeal – or you can try out this chia refresher:
Instructions: In a tall glass, combine three tablespoons of chia seeds with one cup of water. Cover the glass and let the seeds soak for 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator. The seeds will swell and turn gelatinous. Add the mixture to a cup of juice that does not contain added sugar and stir before drinking. Cherry juice and pomegranate juice are both rich in antioxidants for an extra immunity kick.
Cashew Milk
Cashews are another good source of the anti-inflammatory mineral zinc, and pre-made unsweetened cashew milk can be consumed by itself, added to a bit of iced coffee or tea, or used in a smoothie.
Ginger Lemon Tea
Lemon juice is high in Vitamin C, and fresh ginger root is an inflammation-fighter, rich in antioxidants. Studies have shown that ginger has some antibiotic properties and is quite effective at fighting respiratory illnesses.
Instructions: Add a cup of water to a small saucepan along with a couple of nickel-sized slices of fresh ginger. Bring to a boil, and let simmer for at least five minutes (the longer you simmer, the more intense the ginger flavor will be). Let the liquid cool slightly. Squeeze half of a small lemon into a mug, then add the hot ginger water. There is no need to strain the ginger slices. If you desire added sweetness, stir in a half teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
Watch the YouTube video from Yum, showcasing a few different variations of immunity-boosting drinks.
Roseville Personal Injury Lawyer
Thanks for reading. My name is Ed Smith, and I’ve been a Roseville personal injury lawyer for nearly 40 years. My law firm practices a holistic approach to our clients’ recoveries. If you or anyone in your family has sustained injuries in an auto accident caused by another’s negligence, reach out to us for free and friendly advice. Our phone number is (916) 921-6400, or if your phone is outside the 916 area code, dial our toll-free line: (800) 404-5400. In the alternative, you may fill out our online form.
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