Winter is not just fog and cold; it also brings a higher risk of infection and illness. That is why nature gives us seasonal fruits and vegetables at this time of year that help keep the immune system strong. Here are the fruits and vegetables that can keep you healthy in winter.

• Pineapple: rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, pineapple boosts immunity. It helps iron absorption and cell growth and strengthens digestion.
• Pear: rich in fibre, pears aid digestion and encourage the growth of good gut bacteria. Their potassium is good for heart health, and they help reduce inflammation.
• Papaya: full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, papaya neutralises free radicals to reduce cell damage and helps ease chronic inflammation and pain.
• Broccoli: rich in vitamin K, fibre and antioxidants, broccoli helps reduce the risk of heart disease and various cancers.
• Orange: rich in vitamin C and folate, oranges help prevent cell damage, lower blood pressure and aid iron absorption.
• Carrot: high in beta-carotene, carrots contain vitamin A, which is essential for the eyes, bones and immunity.
• Cranberry: rich in vitamin C, cranberries protect against chronic infection, help reduce urinary tract infections and support heart health.
• Pomegranate: rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and fibre, pomegranate increases good gut bacteria, protects heart health and helps control diabetes.
• Kiwi: rich in vitamins C and K, kiwi boosts immunity, keeps bones healthy and aids digestion.
• Pomelo: low in calories, pomelo is rich in vitamins A and C, magnesium and potassium, and its antioxidants help reduce cancer risk.

A strong immune system is essential for staying healthy in winter. Eating these fruits and vegetables regularly supplies the body with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, while enough sunlight provides vitamin D, which is essential for bones and immunity. So include these fruits and vegetables in your diet to protect yourself from winter colds, coughs and flu.

The information is drawn from Apollo Hospitals.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.