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9 healthy foods that help boost the immune system

Health
9 healthy foods that help boost the immune system

The immune system includes complex processes, chemicals, and cells that defend the body against foreign invaders like viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. When left unchecked, these invaders may lead to severe health complications. The immune system needs adequate nutrition to function efficiently and prevent infections or diseases. One could take supplements to build their immunity. However, healthy foods like the ones listed below may also help boost the immune system and keep illnesses at bay.

Oranges
Several people turn to foods rich in vitamin C to fight the symptoms of a cold. Oranges are a healthy source of vitamin C which helps improve the production of white blood cells. So eating this citrus fruit will help build the immune system and ward off or prevent potential health issues. Other healthy citrus fruits rich in vitamin C include clementines, grapefruit, limes, lemons, and tangerines.

Broccoli
The vegetable is flush with nutrients that can benefit one’s immune system. Broccoli is abundant in vitamin C, which boosts white blood cell production. The vegetable is also rich in vitamin K1, a vitamin necessary for blood clotting. Furthermore, it contains iron, an essential mineral for transporting oxygen across the red blood cells. Broccoli is also high in proteins, which are the building blocks of the human body.

Spinach
Adding spinach to the meal plan carries several health benefits. The leafy green contains vitamin A and C, which strengthens entry points of the human body, including the respiratory and intestinal tracts and mucus membranes. The process ensures that one’s immune system remains strong. Adding spinach to meals also ensures one’s body is enriched with calcium, magnesium, iron, healthy fibers, and proteins. These properties help reduce cancer risk, improve bone health, and complement eye health.

Mango
Mangoes are one of the most nutritious fruits one can add to their meals. The fruit nourishes the body with vitamin C, essential for building the immune system. The nutrient also strengthens the connective tissues and improves the blood vessel walls. The fruit is also rich in antioxidant compounds like quercetin, mangiferin, and norathyriol, which protect the body’s cells from attacks by free radicals. The antioxidants could also help fight inflammatory bowel diseases, primarily ulcerative colitis.

Yogurt
When an individual is out shopping for yogurt, they should look for products with “live and active cultures” written on the label. An example of this is Greek yogurt, which is known to promote a healthier immune system that may help with diseases. This dairy product is also abundant in vitamin D, which regulates one’s immunity and influences the body’s natural ability to fight diseases.

Almonds
Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E – a strong antioxidant. The vitamin nurtures healthy cells by shielding them against damage caused by free radicals. Almonds are also high in protein and iron, essential for a smooth-functioning immune system. One can always have almonds with salads, yogurt, and other foods or munch on a handful of this tree nut throughout the day. Other sources of healthy nuts for an improved immune system include hazelnuts, pistachios, and walnuts.

Sunflower seeds
These seeds are one of the most valuable additions to the meal plan that supports an improved immune system. Sunflower seeds are abundant in nutrients like magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, E, and B-6, all of which play a role in maintaining and regulating one’s overall health. Furthermore, the food is high in zinc, an element necessary to help the body develop and maintain immune cells. Studies indicate that eating sunflower seeds nourishes the body with selenium, which may boost immunity, fight infections, and prevent inflammation.

Avocado
Eating half of an avocado can nourish the body with more than 15% of vitamin B6, a nutrient necessary for protecting the body against oxidative damage and curbing inflammation. The fruit also introduces other healthy nutrients to the body, including vitamins C, E, potassium, magnesium, and folates which contribute towards a strong immune system.

Papaya
Papaya has a sweet taste and a soft texture and contains multiple elements that can improve one’s general health. The fruit promotes a healthy immune system by nourishing the body with vitamin C, which helps the body tackle viral and bacterial illnesses. Papayas are also a healthy source of vitamin A, which is essential for building a healthy and functional immune system.

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Health

4 healthy foods for nursing mothers

Mothers who have recently delivered babies don’t have sufficient nutrition due to the loss of blood and lactation. As a result, they have to carefully choose foods that are rich in calcium, carbohydrate, unsaturated fat, iron, folic acid, protein, and vitamins B6, B12, C, and D. Thankfully, healthy foods and supplements can help them regain strength and supply breastmilk to their newborns. The top four superfoods that can help nursing mothers include: Bananas Bananas are less expensive, available throughout the year, and considered a superfood for nursing moms. They are rich in nutrients, healthy carbs, vitamin B, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Bananas are also abundant in potassium, calcium, and pectin, a source of energy. Experts claim that having a banana every day can help moms regain the energy they need to take care of the baby and breastfeed. Potassium is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the mother’s body and aids in the rampant transmission of nerve impulses.  Bananas can also aid in regulating blood pressure. It can prevent constipation, aid in regular bowel movements, and promote healthy gut bacteria. These fruits can provide about 1/4th of the vitamin B6 required for nursing moms, which is crucial for hemoglobin production and fighting antibodies.
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Health

6 toxic plants to keep away from dogs

It has become the norm to keep ornamental at home, especially since they beautify the space tremendously. But, if you are a pet parent, you must exercise caution in picking the potted plants you want. While some plants can cause vomiting or dysentery, a few can cause respiratory, digestive, neurological, or cardiac problems, leading to death. If you have become a pet parent recently, here are six plants toxic to dogs to note: 6 plants that dog parents must take note of Sago palm Sago palm is a very popular ornamental plant for indoor and outdoor spaces. It is known by many names like coontie palms or cardboard palms and is part of the Cycads group of plants. It contains multiple toxins, including cycasin and BMAA. Every part of the sago palm is toxic for your dogs, and the seeds can be the most dangerous. If a dog ingests even a small amount of any part of a sago palm plant, it can affect its nervous system, liver, or gastrointestinal system. You may see symptoms within 15 minutes or many hours. The most common reaction is gastrointestinal irritation, with initial symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also lead to serious complications like neurological problems, resulting in weakness, seizures, and tremors.
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Pets

6 human foods that cats can safely eat

Cats are picky eaters, but they may jump with glee if you share a titbit from your plate. Felines love variety in food, and you can share some of your food if it is nutritious and non-toxic. Moderation is the key when you feed human food to your cat so that it does not cause any allergies or digestive issues. Here is a list of six human foods that are safe for your cats: Eggs Small quantities of cooked eggs are good for cats. You can set aside a tablespoon of scrambled egg or a piece of a boiled egg while you cook some for yourself. Don’t season it, add any oil or butter, or  feed raw eggs or yolks. Eggs contain a protein called Avidin that may prevent the absorption of Vitamin B. Raw eggs could contain Salmonella, a bacteria that can infect the GI tract of both cats and humans. Severe infection may lead to death in cats, while humans may need hospitalization. Vegetables Cats are carnivores and are partial to meat; a non-meat diet may not excite them as much. However, you can feed small portions of a few vegetables that can supply your cat’s fiber, protein, and nutrition requirements.
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Pets

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs

Dogs get affected with fleas or ticks due to spending time on grassy trails, lush parks, or moist areas. And these pests can cause itching and skin damage if not controlled in time. Flea and ticks leave eggs and larvae on the coat, which can be challenging to eradicate. They can also lead to Lyme disease and other debilitating conditions. Following are tips to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs: Consider the following treatment options Bravecto chew Bravecto chew is a chewable treatment option that you can administer along with your dog’s food. It contains fluralaner, an active ingredient that spreads quickly through the dog’s tissues and the skin. Fleas and ticks in the coat ingest minute amounts of fluralaner, which affects their central nervous system, killing them within 12 hours. One dose of Bravecto is effective for about 12 weeks. If your dog is sensitive to the treatment option and vomits within three hours of ingestion, contact your vet, as it may be less impactful in killing the ticks and fleas. Bravecto is also effective in preventing heartworms and intestinal worms. Simparica This prescription treatment option is ideal for dogs over six months and can be administered monthly.

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