Out and About STYLE Mag Issue 3 Vol. 2

DAIRY PRODUCTS AND MEAT FOR PROTEIN
Immunoglobulins or antibodies are proteins that flow
in your blood to form key parts of a strong immune
system. The body uses amino acids from dietary protein
to build other proteins in your body. Too little of it leads
to weakness, fatigue and consequently, poor defence
against external health risks. For all the meat lovers, there
is the option of beef, poultry and fish to provide protein.
And for the vegans- lentils, beans and nuts are a great
way to go!
CARROTS AND KALE FOR BETA CAROTENE
Beta Carotene is basically a carotenoid pigment, reddishorange
in colour that is converted to vitamin A in our
bodies. It is a precursor of vitamin A (retinol), that is much
needed for healthy mucous membrane lining on our
respiratory tracts. Vitamin A also promotes healthy vision
and a stable immune system.
Beta carotene keeps lungs healthy as we age. Eat foods
like carrots, kale, apricots, plums and sweet potatoes to
ensure you get a good amount of beta carotene, and
hence, vitamin A in your diet.
A BMJ report of a test done on 535 individuals revealed
that high blood beta carotene levels could repair damage
done to our lungs by free oxygen radicals. So, you can
stock up on carrots to protect yourself from lung infections
such as pneumonia.
TURMERIC FOR INFLAMMATORY RELIEF
Turmeric contains curcumin which is a natural compound
that gives it that beautiful yellow-gold hue. Curcumin
is a potent immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory
compound that modulates the activation of B cells,
T cells, neutrophils and natural killer cells. Even at low
doses, curcumin improves antibody responses. Therefore,
turmeric has proved to be quite beneficial in treating
upper respiratory tract ailments, asthmas and allergies.
An interesting tip is to add a pinch of black pepper when
you add turmeric to your food. Piperine, a bioactive
compound in black pepper enhances the absorption of
curcumin in our bodies by 2000%!
Although curries are popular options, our favourite is
golden milk! It is a soothing way to add both pepper and
turmeric to your diet. A brew of hot milk, turmeric and
pepper does wonders to a scratchy throat and a sneezing
bout!
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