By Nneka Nwogwugwu
Feeding your body certain foods like nuts will help keep your immune system strong by fighting viruses, like the COVID-19, Omicron variant.
The Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Tedros Ghebreyesus, on Thursday said the omicron variant of the coronavirus pandemic is leading to hospitalisation and killing people, just as other variants.
Mr Ghebreyesus said this at a media briefing on COVID-19, noting that the omicron variant should not be classified as mild.
“While Omicron does appear to be less severe compared to Delta, especially in those vaccinated, it does not mean it should be categorised as mild,” he said, adding that; “Just like previous variants Omicron is hospitalising people and killing people.”
He said; “In fact, the tsunami of cases is so huge and quick that it is overwhelming health systems around the world.
“Hospitals are becoming overcrowded and understaffed, which further results in preventable deaths from not only COVID-19 but other diseases and injuries where patients cannot receive timely care.”
According to Research and nutritionists, the following 5 nuts have health benefits that help to boost immune system.
1. Almonds
Almonds are easy to find in any grocery store or shopping online. They’re perfect as a healthy snack and can be added to salads and yogurt. Vitamin E confers antioxidant properties and supports immune function. Fresh Almonds are high in vitamin E that helps immune system function.
2. Walnuts
Walnuts are an excellent source of several vitamins and minerals, including: Copper and Vitamin B6. Copper found in fresh walnuts helps maintain bone, nerve, and immune system function. Vitamin B6, on the other hand, strengthens your immune system and support nerve health.
3. Pistachios
A healthy immune system requires adequate intake of vitamin B6, which pistachios abound in. Vitamin B6 found in fresh pistachios also promotes blood flow by helping to carry oxygen through the bloodstream to cells, and helps maintain the health of lymphoid glands, such as the thymus, spleen and lymph nodes. All of these things help the production of white blood cells that defend the body from infections.
4. Brazil Nuts
Brazil nuts contain several nutrients that are vital for the immune system, including selenium, zinc and iron. Brazil nuts are most renowned, though, for their high selenium content, and are in fact the richest known food source of this important nutrient. Selenium is an essential trace element that is needed daily for a healthy immune system and it helps to prevent damage to our nerves and cells.
5. Cashews
A zinc deficiency can lead to a compromised immune system. “Zinc is an essential nutrient for the immune system. This mineral is important for the development of immune system cells, the production of antioxidant enzymes, and the activity of immune system regulators,” informs Delhi-based celebrity nutritionist, Nmami Agarwal.
Her nut of choice to build immunity is the cashew, which contains copper in addition to zinc. “Several studies have shown that boosting zinc intake has been associated with a healthier immune response, meaning that cashews could help you fight off your next cold,” she adds.
