Childhood Vaccination Has Saved Millions of Lives, but Rising Hesitancy Could Reverse Decades of Progress
From Weight Loss To Immunity Boost: 10 Reasons Why You Must Drink Elderberry Juice Daily
Health experts recommend the consumption of elderberry juice, made of dark purple berries growing on elder trees. The juice has several medicinal uses and is considered to elevate one's overall health and boost immunity. Drinking about 12 ounces or 350 mL of elderberry juice every day can alter the 'community of microbes' living in the gut. It can also improve the body's glucose tolerance. (Photo: Freepik)Elderberry juice health benefits: It is important to prioritise your diet and introduce food items that can elevate your health and strengthen your immune system. Drinking elderberry juice every day is considered to be very important. According to a new clinical trial, the daily intake of this juice can lead to positive changes in the gut bacteria; it can also improve metabolism that can help with weight management. For centuries, elderberry juice has been a popular remedy, particularly for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. The elderberry plant is said to be a rich source of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet. The consumption of elderberry juice -- made of dark purple berries growing in the elder trees -- is associated with numerous health benefits, ranging from boosting immunity and reducing inflammation, to supporting weight loss and improving cardiovascular health.
According to an Independent report, the new research -- published in the journal 'Nutrients' -- has found that drinking about 12 ounces or 350 mL of elderberry juice every day can alter the 'community of microbes' living in the gut. Additionally, it can also improve the body's glucose tolerance. Apparently, the juice is a unique combination of 'anthocyanins', 'flavonoids', and other 'bioactive' compounds. Experts state that elderberry juice has, in recent times, become a sought-after supplement for those seeking to improve their overall well-being.
Here are 10 health benefits of drinking elderberry juice; read on.
The above-mentioned information is generic in nature. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult with a specialist or a doctor for more information pertaining to your health and history before making changes to your diet.
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10 Ways To Boost Your Immune System Naturally
The immune system serves as the body's primary defense against illness, making its maintenance crucial for overall health. While basic practices like hand washing and balanced nutrition form the foundation of immune health, several natural approaches can enhance the body's ability to fight off infections and maintain wellness.
A balanced diet: The first line of defenseProper nutrition stands at the forefront of immune system support. A diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables provides essential antioxidants that combat harmful free radicals in the body. Including healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil helps support the body's inflammatory response. Lean proteins play a vital role in tissue repair and antibody production.
Hydration: Supporting immune functionAdequate hydration supports immune function by maintaining proper fluid balance and helping flush toxins from the body. Water keeps mucous membranes moist, creating an effective barrier against pathogens. Most adults benefit from consuming at least eight glasses of water daily, with increased needs during exercise or hot weather.
Quality sleep: The immune system's reset buttonDuring deep sleep, the body produces and activates T-cells, which help fight infections. Adults should aim for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted rest each night. Creating a consistent bedtime routine and limiting evening screen time can improve sleep quality significantly.
Regular exercise: Keeping defenses strongPhysical activity enhances circulation, allowing immune cells to move efficiently throughout the body. Moderate exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga provide immune-boosting benefits without overtaxing the system. However, excessive exercise can temporarily suppress immune function, making balance crucial.
Stress management: Protecting immune responseChronic stress releases cortisol, which can weaken immune response over time. Regular meditation, deep breathing exercises, or time spent outdoors help manage stress levels naturally. Engaging in enjoyable hobbies provides another effective way to reduce stress impact.
Gut health: The immunity hubA significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut, making digestive health crucial. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut support beneficial gut bacteria. Prebiotic foods, including bananas, onions, and asparagus, provide nourishment for these helpful microorganisms.
Sugar reduction: Maintaining immune strengthLimiting sugar intake benefits both gut and immune health. Excess sugar can suppress immune cell activity and promote inflammation. Choosing natural sweeteners and fresh fruits instead of processed sweets helps maintain optimal immune function.
Vitamin D: The sunshine vitaminSunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, a crucial nutrient for immune function. Spending fifteen to twenty minutes in sunlight daily supports natural vitamin D production. When sun exposure proves limited, fatty fish and fortified foods can help maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
Lifestyle choices: Avoiding immune suppressantsAvoiding harmful substances significantly impacts immune health. Smoking damages immune cells, while excessive alcohol disrupts both immune function and gut health. Making conscious choices about substance use supports the body's natural defense mechanisms.
Natural supplements: Additional immune supportCertain herbs and natural supplements can provide additional immune support when used appropriately. Elderberry, known for its antiviral properties, and echinacea, which may help reduce cold duration, offer traditional immune-boosting benefits. Basic nutrients like zinc and vitamin C play fundamental roles in immune function.
Strengthening immunityBuilding a robust immune system requires more than implementing a single strategy. The most effective approach combines multiple methods, allowing them to work synergistically. While each of these ten ways offers distinct benefits, their combined impact creates a powerful foundation for immune health.
Health care professionals emphasize that these natural approaches should complement, not replace, basic health practices. Regular hand washing, proper medical care, and following public health guidelines remain essential. By incorporating these immune-boosting strategies into daily routines, individuals can help their bodies maintain strong defenses against illness while supporting overall health and well-being.
This story was created using AI technology.
Versatile 69p Spice That Boosts Immune System Can Go In Soups, Smoothies And Milk
Keeping a robust immune system is vital for overall health, particularly during the winter months when colds and flu are more common. NHS data reveals that at the beginning of the month, there was an average of 5,408 patients in hospital with flu daily.
Adding certain superfoods to your diet can enhance your immunity. These nutrient-packed foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds that aid both immune function and digestion.
But do our favourite cold remedies actually work, or are they just popular myths? To find out, Wren Kitchens' experts conducted a survey to see what Brits rely on during the cold season.
Doctors Deborah Lee and Sham Singh then examined the results to shed light on the truth behind these so-called "superfoods". While many Brits could identify some of the top immune-boosting foods, others caused confusion about their actual benefits, reports Surrey Live.
They came up with a list of five immune-boosting foods that do the job including spices turmeric and ginger which are both packed with benefits. They then draw up a list of five foods people think work but might miss the mark.
5 immune-boosting foods Turmeric"Turmeric's popularity is well-deserved," says Dr. Sham. "It contains curcumin, a powerful compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help minimise inflammation, which could otherwise weaken immune responses."
Turmeric costs as little as 69p for a jar at Aldi. Incorporate it into your meals by adding it to soups, stews, or stir-fries for a warm, earthy flavour, or blend it into smoothies and golden milk for a health boost.
Citrus fruits"Citrus fruits are rightly recognised for their high vitamin C content, which plays a critical role in boosting white blood cell production to fight infections," Dr Sham explains. Add citrus fruits to your diet by including fresh slices in salads, smoothies, or water for a refreshing burst of flavour and vitamin C.
You can also use their juice or zest to enhance dressings, marinades, and baked goods.
GingerDr Sham says: "Ginger is widely known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation. It's particularly effective in alleviating respiratory infections and cold symptoms."
Fresh ginger is currently on offer for 59p at Aldi, down from its usual price of 89p, - or you can buy a jar of the dried version also for 59p. Include it in your diet by grating it into teas, smoothies, or stir-fries for a spicy, warming kick.
Berries"Berries are rich in flavonoids, which support a healthy gut microbiome—an essential element of strong immune health," says Dr Sham. Dr Deborah highlights blueberries, saying, "They are especially high in antioxidants, and their polyphenols have antiviral, antibacterial, and immunomodulatory properties."
Add berries into your diet by using them to top breakfast cereals, yogurt, or smoothies for a sweet, antioxidant-rich boost.
Leafy greens"Recent studies have shown that eating leafy green veg such as kale stimulates the production of intra-epithelial lymphocytes (IELs) which are a vital part of the gut immune system," adds Dr Deborah.
Incorporate spinach into your diet by blending it into smoothies or adding it to pasta dishes and omelettes for extra nutrients. Try kale by baking it into crispy chips or tossing it into winter soups and stews.
However, some of the most commonly perceived immunity-boosting foods might not do the job they are thought to do. Many Brits surveyed thought foods such as garlic and yoghurt were mistakenly believed by Brits to have immunity-boosting properties.
The experts warn while many have some health benefits it might not be the full picture. They said some needed further research while others did different jobs.
Garlic"While garlic can stimulate certain immune cells like macrophages, lymphocytes, and natural killer (NK) cells, most of the supporting studies have been conducted in animals. There's a lack of well-conducted human studies, so we can't definitively claim it boosts immunity," says Dr. Deborah.
Yoghurt"Yogurt is somewhat valid as an immune supporter due to its probiotic content, which helps balance gut bacteria, though its role in directly boosting immunity isn't conclusive," says Dr. Sham.
"Chicken or vegetable soup are people's go to when they're feeling under the weather. This is likely because it provides hydration and symptom relief for colds, rather than directly enhancing immune function," Dr. Sham explains.
Dark Chocolate"Although dark chocolate contains polyphenols with antioxidant properties, its effect on immunity is minimal," shares Dr. Sham.
Chillies"Chillies are anti-inflammatory due to their capsaicin content, but there's no direct link or evidence to enhanced immunity," explains Dr. Sham.
Debra Hutt, kitchen expert at Wren Kitchens, said: "The kitchen isn't just a place for cooking—it's a space where simple choices, like adding ginger to a dish or making a warm turmeric tea, can make a big difference in boosting your immune system naturally. With thoughtful preparation and the right ingredients, your kitchen becomes a powerful ally in building lasting health."
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