Do You Use Food To Fend Off Illness?

In illness, what do we usually do?

Cover photo by – Dianne Hope.

Most of us aim to eat healthy foods to reduce obesity and improve energy levels. Some people experiment with their diets to fight illness and disease. Fresh fruit and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals that are essential nutrients for a healthy body and mind. But it is thought that some may be considered super foods for their illness-busting properties.

Cancer is an illness that we hear about every day.

We all know someone who has experienced cancer in their families. Some people are at higher risk of developing cancer than others. This can be due to a genetic predisposition, or because of lifestyle choices such as smoking. Can eating cancer-busting superfoods really make a difference?

Foods like broccoli may be beneficial in some ways. It does contain sulforaphane that is thought to flush the body of cancer-causing chemicals. There is no hard evidence any foods can be guaranteed to prevent or cure cancers, but certainly eating healthily helps. It’s possible a positive mental attitude toward the act of eating healthily can help too.

food prevent illness

Vitamin C has long been associated with good health.

It can be found in citrus fruits like oranges. Many of us take extra vitamin C to avoid colds during winter. Although this isn’t entirely proven, it does seem to help in some people. You might be able to reduce the impact of having a cold on your system by eating healthy foods rich in vitamin C too.

Thyme tea is a favorite for those who suffer coughs.

Coughs are common following the start of a cold. The Thyme is thought to reduce inflammation. Honey and lemon are often used to soothe the throat when you suffer a cough too. But coughs can be a symptom of a very serious illness like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD symptoms can often be mistaken for a bad chesty cough at first. It’s important that you see a doctor, even if you are keen to give natural remedies and foods a go first.

Help for Insomnia.

Insomnia can also be a symptom of other more serious problems. Some people add extra salmon to their diet or drink a warm cup of milk before bed to help aid restful sleep. But other foods and drinks can be causing the problem in the first place. Teas, coffees, chocolate, and sweet foods can all delay the body’s ability to fall asleep. And a lack of sleep can, in turn, lead you prone to other illnesses.

Food can also be used topically to help with certain illness conditions.

Cucumbers are placed over the eyes to reduce the baggy appearance of the skin when the fluid has accumulated there. Some people use honey, milk and oats for skin care too. While natural remedies can be highly beneficial, it’s important not to ignore symptoms that persist.

All of us will suffer some illness from time to time. Eating healthily and leading a healthy lifestyle is sure to stave off some common colds. And it may reduce the risk of serious conditions like diabetes and heart disease. But there are some illnesses we can’t prevent, and food alone is not going to cure. It’s very important to consult your doctor when you fall ill, and to eat adequately please consult a nutritionist-dietician.

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