Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons – the changing colors of the leaves on the trees create stunning views. However, it's also a time when our bodies are increasingly susceptible to weakened immunity, and consequently, colds and illnesses. In such situations, it's worth reaching for proven, natural body strengtheners. While they certainly can't replace traditional remedies recommended for more advanced illnesses, they can shorten the duration of illness and prevent recurrence. In this article, we'll present three superfoods that are perfect for autumn and winter, boosting our energy during these colder months.
Rosehip has enjoyed considerable popularity since ancient times. Its fruit is used to make tinctures, preserves, and wines. Its high vitamin C content provides natural protection against bacteria and viruses. Furthermore , rosehip has antioxidant potential, which is related to the presence of flavonols and phenolic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. According to recent reports, a substance found in rosehips—galactolipids—also has a beneficial effect on relieving joint pain. Rosehip preserves are recommended for those seeking to protect their bodies from infections.
Another superfood that should definitely find its place in our home medicine cabinet is ginger . This product has warming, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been proven to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and lower bad cholesterol levels in the blood. It's a wonderful warming agent on cold days, and when added to tea with honey, raspberry juice, cinnamon, and cloves, it not only tastes delicious but, above all, strengthens the body.
Finally, we have garlic , which has enjoyed unwavering popularity for thousands of years. Our great-grandmothers and grandmothers used it, and likely many generations to come will reap the benefits of its medicinal properties. Garlic contains, among other things, sulfur glycosides, essential oil, flavonoids, phytosterol, sugar compounds, and many other minerals, which, when combined, effectively combat the Helicobacter pylori bacteria. This bacteria contributes to the development of ulcers and gastric inflammation. Importantly, garlic is a valuable ingredient during the fall and winter months, when our bodies are susceptible to infections and weakened immunity. It possesses antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Crushing garlic cloves releases compounds with anticoagulant properties.
Sometimes, instead of reaching for widely available dietary supplements, it's worth exploring natural products that strengthen our immunity. It doesn't take much to enjoy good health during autumn and winter.
Fun fact
Honey, despite its antibacterial and antiviral properties, and its use as a natural antibiotic, loses its properties when heated. This is worth considering when adding it to hot tea when suffering from a cold.
Beata and Patrycja – creators of the blog Z Pamiętnika Dietetyka (Dietetics' Diary) , authors of a book about healthy eating, and sisters in private. They are a harmonious duo, despite their different worldviews. Beata, a dietitian by profession, loves to set high goals for herself, which is why she turned to dietary catering as a career, wanting to take care not only of her own health but also of all Warsaw residents. Patrycja, on the other hand, has a journalism degree and loves cooking and documenting her adventures in the kitchen. She works on the artistic side of the blog daily, and as she herself admits, nothing is impossible for her. She always strives for her goal, even though it's often uphill.
