Strengthen immunity

DESPITE Covid-19 being seemingly less prevalent in South Africa now and restrictions being eased, we should not let our guard down because the country is in its peak flu season.

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the flu season started in April and it will end this month.

NICD research indicates that influenza A, influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 and influenza B are seasonal influenza virus strains common in humans.

It notes that influenza A (H1N1) pdm09, which is sometimes incorrectly referred to as “swine flu”, has been one of the circulating seasonal strains following its emergence in 2009.

“The term swine flu should not be used as it causes unnecessary panic. The clinical course of infection with this influenza strain and clinical management is similar to that of other influenza strains,” advises the NICD.

Dr Tamlyn Govender, an Ayurvedic specialist, said it was important to be wary as many infections were spread easily among adults and children – particularly with children back at schools for the new term.

Govender is based in Pretoria and is registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa to practice Ayurveda in the country.

She said although many Covid-19 restrictions were lifted, particularly with the use of masks, we should still practice all the regulations such as regular sanitisation, proper ventilation and good hygiene.

“Also, when presenting with any common symptom such as fever, sore throat, cough, etc, it is best to stay at home and self-isolate. It is in everyone’s best interest to be vigilant and prevent the further spread of infection given the fact that there are still new variants that we do not yet understand.”

Govender said common issues around this time of the year, especially among schoolchildren, included colds, flu, recurring tummy infections, abdominal pain, allergies, asthma, poor appetite, constipation, diarrhoea and earache.

“This usually occurs because children lack natural immunity. One way to boost a child’s immunity is to naturally maintain their appetite. It is important for kids to have healthy, nutritious and balanced meals. Fast foods and frozen meals are devoid of proper nutrition. Including foods such as boiled Jersey

cow milk, freshly cooked meals, and organic meats, fruit, and vegetables are the best sources of building your child’s natural immune response.

“Food combinations such as fruit and milk, meat and dairy, milk and salty foods as well as fruit and yoghurt are unsuitable for the body because they do not digest well. These combinations are some of the major causes of disease,” she said.

“Ayurveda also recommends including foods such as honey, milk and ghee in your child’s diet. Legumes and pulses are also beneficial and provide a rich source of protein and calcium. Cook meals with warm digestive spices such as ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, etc. Have home-cooked meals and avoid leftovers or canned foods,” she said.

Govender shared some tips:

◆ Suvarna prashan is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that increases immunity in children. It also helps with general, physical and mental health, improves concentration and memory, and improves digestion. It is usually advised for children up to 16 years of age.

◆ In a clinical trial, the use of Septilin (Himalaya), which helps in elevating the body's resistance to infection, has proven useful in the management of upper respiratory tract infections in children

◆ Chyvanprash, an Ayurvedic supplement is made up of a blend of nutrient-rich herbs and minerals, is an immunity booster, vitaliser and prevents infections and allergies such as the common cold and coughs. A study concluded that regular consumption of Chyvanprash for three to six months helps to improve immunity, energy levels, physical fitness, strength, stamina, and quality of life in children, as assessed by various parameters.

◆ Dense foods rich in vitamins C and D, and minerals such as copper and zinc, are beneficial. These nutrients help support immune systems. Include foods such as liver, dark chocolate, fresh salmon, fresh sardine and nuts.

Govender lists foods which boost immunities:

◆ Amla is a rich source of vitamin C. It also prevents and cures respiratory problems such as cough, asthma, bronchitis, and colds. If you are unable to get Amla juice, the raw fruit will also be beneficial.

◆ Vegetables cooked with ghee or olive oil and digestive spices.

◆ Sandwiches with fresh vegetables and/or organic meat without sauces that have preservatives.

◆ Organic meat with or without stirfry vegetables with rice cooked in ghee, olive oil or butter.

◆ Fresh home-made bread with grass-fed butter or unsalted butter.

◆ Brazil nuts are a rich antioxidant.

◆ Dark chocolate contains zinc and copper which is good for gastrointestinal health.

◆ Berries are rich sources of vitamin C and antioxidants.

◆ Tulsi ginger tea reduces inflammation, improves overall immunity and digestion.

◆ Leafy greens, pomegranates, citrus fruits, dry fruits, seeds and nuts.

Govender said families could boost immunity by:

◆ Setting a healthy routine for your child.

◆ Encourage them to play in the sun and be more active at school.

◆ Avoid processed meats.

◆ Understanding your child’s body constitution from an Ayurvedic perspective will help you tap into their natural needs. For example, a child who is inclined to develop respiratory problems due to increased mucus should avoid cold foods, cheese, sweets, etc. To loosen the mucus, sip on warm ginger tea, steam regularly with a few drops of Vicks or eucalyptus oil in some hot water, and have light, warm nourishing meals such as soups.