Key Facts:
- Exposure to harmful pollutants like sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and ultrafine particles increases inflammation.
- High-protein foods like eggs, vitamin C-rich fruits, and anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric and ginger strengthen the immune system.
- Staying hydrated with water, herbal teas, and coconut water helps flush out toxins and maintain respiratory health.
- Staying indoors, using air purifiers, wearing N95 masks, and practising breathing exercises can reduce exposure to harmful air.
- Eggoz eggs offer high protein and essential nutrients to support a healthy immune system and overall well-being.
"Breathe in, breathe out, and relax!"
Well, as per Delhi's hazardous AQI levels, relaxing seems impossible. We’re inhaling toxic air and exhaling each moment of our life.
According to Air Pollution - Monitoring and Management, A Case Study – Delhi by Dr. MP George, October and November are the most critical months when Delhi's AQI reaches hazardous levels.
The primary culprits are crop residue burning (CRB) in neighbouring states, vehicular emissions, and other factors that lead to persistently poor air quality in Delhi.
After COVID-19, this alarming situation highlights the urgent need to focus on a diet to boost the immune system, wear masks, and stay indoors.
What is the Immune System?
The immune system is the body’s defence mechanism, protecting us from harmful pathogens, toxins, and pollutants. A robust immune system ensures resilience and helps keep illnesses at bay. However, external factors like pollution can significantly challenge its efficiency.
How Pollution Impacts the Immune System?
Increased pollution, especially in urban areas like Delhi and the NCR, severely weakens the immune system. Pollutants like sulfur oxides, ozone, nitrogen oxides, carbon, and ultrafine particles are incredibly harmful. These pollutants disrupt immune system function and can cause:
- Increased inflammation in the body.
- Reduced ability to fend off infections.
- Respiratory issues and allergies.
- Oxidative stress, impairing cell repair and growth.
Foods to Eat for a Better Immune System During Delhi's AQI:
The right immune system booster foods can mitigate the harmful effects of pollution. Here are some options for a diet to improve the immune system during Delhi's poor air quality:
- Vitamin C-rich Foods
- Examples: Oranges, lemons, guava, amla, bell peppers.
- Benefits: Enhances immune system function and reduces oxidative stress caused by pollutants.
- Vitamin E Sources
- Examples: Almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach.
- Benefits: Protects cells from damage and combats inflammation caused by pollution.
- Anti-inflammatory Foods
- Examples: Turmeric (curcumin), ginger, garlic, and green tea.
- Benefits: Reduces respiratory irritation and strengthens defences.
- High-Protein Foods
- Examples: Eggs (Eggoz), chicken, lentils, and beans.
- Benefits: Provides a high-protein snack option to repair tissues and strengthen the immune system.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Examples: Walnuts, flaxseeds, salmon.
- Benefits: Supports lung health and reduces pollutant-induced damage.
- Probiotic Foods
- Examples: Yogurt, kefir, fermented pickles.
- Benefits: Maintains gut health, which is crucial for boosting immunity.
- Stay Hydrated
- Examples: Water, herbal teas, and coconut water.
- Benefits: Flushes out toxins and keeps airways moist.
Healthy Food and Lifestyle Tips During High AQI:
- Stay Indoors: Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours.
- Healthy Snacks: Opt for nutritious options like roasted seeds, nuts, and fruits to maintain energy levels throughout the day.
- Use Air Purifiers: Improve indoor air quality.
- Healthy Breakfast Ideas: Start your day with high-protein foods like eggs or oats to fuel your body against toxins.
- Healthy Dinner Ideas: Include immune-boosting foods like spinach soup, grilled chicken, or lentil curry.
- Wear Masks: Prefer N95 masks for better protection.
- Practice Breathing Exercises: Strengthen your respiratory system with pranayama or yoga.
- Avoid Junk Food: Processed foods can worsen inflammation.
Conclusion:
Eggoz not only provides better nutrition but also cares for your health and guides you toward building a healthier lifestyle. Adding immune system food like eggs, vitamin-rich fruits, and anti-inflammatory ingredients to your daily meals can make a significant difference. With high-protein eggs, Eggoz supports maintaining immunity and resilience during pollution. Start small—every step counts toward better health and thriving despite the challenges of Delhi's AQI.