The lockdown has unearthed many things that we have been taking for granted for all this while. In the daily grind, we would often neglect our health completely. And now that the whole country is in a middle of a lockdown due to a pandemic, it is perhaps essential for all of us to pause, think and give our health the care and attention it deserves.
Immunity could be defined as a balanced state, where our body is well-equipped to fight infection and diseases. Our body has many natural defenses; however, there are times we need to take help externally through medicines or foods to bolster our immunity. It is always a good idea to consult a certified expert before taking any medicines or supplements. Even if you are making major alteration to your diet, it is ideal to have an expert opinion. You would be happy to know that there are plenty of natural foods in our kitchen pantry that may help boost our immunity naturally. For instance, tomato and peppercorn.
(Also Read: Watch: 6 Immunity Boosting Foods That You'll Easily Find At Home)
Immunity-boosting properties of tomato:
Tomato is plump with nutrients that could do wonders for our digestion, skin and immunity. Tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, most vital of them being vitamin C, E and beta-carotene. Antioxidants help prevent free-radical activity and reduce oxidative stress that takes a toll on your immunity.
Immunity-boosting properties of peppercorn or black pepper:
Peppercorn has been one of the traditional remedies to combat flu and infections. Black pepper is replete with antibacterial and antiviral properties that could have a soothing effect on your cold, and it's anti-inflammatory properties help ease discomfort caused due to seasonal infections.
(Also Read: Watch: Make This Homemade Immunity Booster With Your Kitchen Spices Like Jeera, Dhania And More)
Recipe of Tomato peppercorn clear soup:
Soups are warm, soothing and they can cheer you up instantly. This is because they are steaming hot; they help declog the nose and have a healing property about them. This recipe of tomato peppercorn soup comprises a wealth of nutrition. Since it is a clear soup, it is good for dieters too. The soup is laden with superfoods known to boost immunity, for instance, garlic, ginger, cinnamon and onion. Serve the soup hot with sprinkle of black pepper powder and garnish with mint leaves.
Try making this soup at home and let us know what you think about it in the comments section below.
(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)