Nutrition

Published August 9, 2021

Have you taken a Pap test or HPV test and had been diagnosed with HPV recently? If so, you are probably attempting to process lots of new information at the same time. The fact that HPV is incurable adds to the fear factor, but there are two critical points to consider if you’re feeling overwhelmed. 

Firstly, keep in mind that the majority of HPV infections do not cause symptoms or health issues. HPV infections, particularly those caused by high-risk strains of the virus, resolve on their own within two years more than 90% of the time. In essence, the immune system suppresses the virus until it becomes undetectable, even when it is a high-risk strain. 

Secondly, there are natural ways to strengthen your immune system and make it more capable of fighting the infection. While these are not infallible cures, natural treatment for HPV is available to take charge of your health and help your body become less susceptible to infections.

What does HPV look like?

Warts are the most prevalent HPV infection symptom. This may be genital warts in some individuals. 

These lesions may be flat, small stem-like lumps or small bumps that are cauliflower-like. They may be itchy, but they rarely cause pain or discomfort. Women commonly develop genital warts on the vulva, but they can also occur inside the vagina or on the cervix. On the other hand, they are found on the penis and scrotum of men. 

Moreover, males and females alike can develop genital warts around the anus. 

While genital warts are the first type of wart frequently thought of, this is not always the issue. Additionally, you may encounter:

• Common warts

These rough raised bumps cause discomfort and are occasionally prone to bleeding. Also, they typically appear on the fingers, hands, and elbows.

• Flat warts

These dark, somewhat elevated lesions can manifest everywhere on the body.

• Plantar warts

These hard, gritty lumps can be irritating. They are most frequently found on the ball or heel of the foot.

• Oropharyngeal warts

These are variously shaped and sized lesions that may develop on the cheek, tongue, or other oral surfaces. Generally, they are not painful.

In most situations, HPV infections are asymptomatic and resolve on their own. However, two strains of HPV – HPV-16 and HPV-18 – have been linked to precancerous cervical lesions and cervical cancer. 

This can take between 5 to 20 years to develop, depending on the status of your immune system. Cervical cancer frequently has no symptoms until it has progressed to a more advanced state. Here are the advanced cervical cancer symptoms to look out for:

• back, leg, or pelvic pain
• vaginal pain
• bleeding irregularly, bleeding in between menstrual cycles, or abnormal vaginal bleeding following sexual intercourse
• smelly discharge
• fatigue
• a single swollen leg
• weight loss
• appetite loss

Additionally, HPV can cause cancers in the following parts of the body:

• mouth
• throat
• vulva
• vagina
• anus
• Penis

Published June 27, 2021

The Coronavirus has sparked outrage around the world. Thus, a robust immune system is essential for optimum health since it aids in the battle against infections and illnesses. But, unfortunately, as people get older, their immune systems weaken and become less effective in fighting diseases.

Nowadays, individuals are urged, particularly older people, to safeguard themselves. However, until a vaccine is entirely developed, only self-awareness and vigilance can protect us from these diseases. Moreover, boosting immunity among the elderly becomes critical in this setting.

The good news is that a healthy lifestyle, combined with healthful living practices, can increase immunological health, allowing us to prevent and fight disease more effectively. So, today, we will talk about the best drinks to boost immune system of the elderly.

Why Do We Need Drinks To Boost The Immune System?

The human immune system is a sophisticated defense system comprising numerous organs and specialized cells and tissues. On the other hand, magic potions do not exist, and there are no scientifically sound secret recipes for drinks that improve immune system function.

According to a reliable source, the only proper approach to boost immunity is via immunizations for specific ailments. Moreover, having a well-balanced diet and staying physically fit are the best ways to increase the immune system’s efficacy. Drinks that boost immune system activity may also be beneficial if used as part of a larger, nutritionally balanced strategy.

The elderly should increase their intake of immune-boosting beverages since they are high in nutrients that could help them stay healthy and active throughout the day or longer. 

Top Drinks To Boost Immunity In Elderly 

1. Blend of Citrus Fruits

It is best to consume a glass of blended citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, sweet limes, grapefruits, and tangerines, when you plan on boosting your immune system. This rapid immunity booster contains Vitamin C and gives elders the ability to fight infections. In addition, potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin B-9, Vitamin C, and Zinc are all present. 

These nutrients work together to strengthen the immune system of the elderly since citrus fruits are excellent immune enhancers. They contain a lot of vitamin C, and vitamin C stimulates the development of white blood cells, which are essential in fighting against infections.

2. Watermelon & Mint 

Watermelon and mint create an excellent immune booster drink since they include various nutrients such as Arginine, Citrulline, Magnesium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C. This drink is very easy to make at home. Watermelon can also reduce muscle pain, which is widespread, especially in the elderly.

This fruit’s high water content may also make it easier to juice. As a result, elders can easily prepare this on their own.

3. The Green Delight

Looking for a quick and easy-to-make immunity-boosting drink for the elderly? Just get a green salad with apple, lettuce, and kale ready. To make your green treat healthy, you may also add parsley and spinach. This beverage contains essential nutrients such as iron, manganese, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B-9, vitamin C, and vitamin K. It will make everyone, even children, love to drink their greens.

4. Ginger and Apple Cider Juice

Here’s another drink with a lot of good stuff in it. In the elderly, the combination of apple cider and ginger juice can boost their antioxidant activity. While apple cider aids in hydration, it also contains valuable plant chemicals, enhances heart health, and boosts the immune system.

5. Pumpkin Drink

Pumpkin promotes bone, urinary, and mental health, as well as stone healing and heart health. Because of its numerous health benefits, pumpkin has become a popular drink among the elderly.

Pumpkin is high in nutrients that may help your immune system. For instance, it contains a lot of beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. According to research, vitamin A can boost your immune system and help you fight illnesses. People who are deficient in vitamin A, on the other hand, may have a weakened immune system. 

Pumpkin is also abundant in vitamin C, which has been shown to improve white blood cell production, aid immune cell function, and speed wound healing. Aside from the two vitamins listed above, pumpkin contains vitamin E, iron, and folate as well, all of which have been demonstrated to benefit the immune system.

6. A Fortifying Mixture of Beet, Carrot, and Apple (Or With Ginger)

Here is the finest immunity booster for the elderly to consume during the winter. This fortifying drink provides the ability to combat common diseases such as a runny nose, cough, and fever. Moreover, this is an excellent beverage for seniors suffering from anemia and dementia.

This contains three root vegetables that can boost the immune system and reduce inflammatory symptoms. Inflammation is frequently an immunological reaction to viral or bacterial infections. Moreover, because ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, people with rheumatoid arthritis may find this juice especially beneficial.

Hot Drinks to Boost Immune System 

1. Raagi Malt

Ragi, scientifically known as Eleusine coracana, is an annual cereal crop that is widely grown in the tropical regions of Africa and Asia, including Ethiopia, India, and Sri Lanka. It is densely packed with nutrients, providing valuable health benefits such as enhancing digestion, lowering the risk of heart disease, slowing down aging, and managing diabetes. 

At the same time, it provides calcium, protein, and amino acids such as Eleusinian, tryptophan, cysteine, methionine, and so on, which are not commonly found in other foods. In addition, Ragi is one of the highest-fiber sources since it reduces cholesterol and improves immune system performance.

2. Tomato Rasam

Tomato rasam is a quick and easy hot drink that can help the elderly’s immune system. Tomatoes offer the body three vital antioxidants: beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. These three nutrients shield the aging cells from harm. Additionally, it helps prevent heart disease and boost the life expectancy of senior citizens.

3. Carrot Ginger Soup

A bowl of carrot-ginger soup is a delicious and healthy warm drink for the elderly. This is high in beta-carotene and antioxidants, which help to cleanse the digestive tract and boost immunity. In addition, this soup enhances the elderly’s eye and liver function.

Home-made Organic & Ayurvedic Drinks To Boost Immune System 

1. Ginger Turmeric Tea

Home-made ayurvedic ginger turmeric tea is a fantastic immune-boosting drink. Regular consumption of this tea can improve the immunological function of the elderly. In addition, this tea decreases the danger of other old-age disorders in older people.

According to some research, ginger and turmeric may help reduce inflammation markers, treat chronic pain, reduce nausea, and improve immunological function.

2. Fresh Mint Kadha

Here’s another healthy ayurvedic drink that you may make at home. Mint is a cooling drink, even in the form of Kadha. It cools the body, removes toxins, and strengthens the immune system. Kadha, a natural immune booster made with Indian herbs and spices, is claimed to be the finest medicine for fever and sore throat. Moreover, it relieves coughs and is high in antioxidants.

3. Turmeric Shot

This is one of the most potent antioxidants on the list. It benefits the human body in various ways, including increasing the immune system, fighting cancer, and improving skin. As a result, it is an excellent immune booster drink for the elderly. 

So, if you truly want your beloved seniors to live happily and longer with a strong immune system, simply give them a turmeric shot regularly.

4. Herbal Tea

It is recommended that elders give up coffee and regular tea in favor of this fantastic alternative. Herbal tea, made from a mixture of herbs, nourishes your body from the inside out. It is used to enhance the immune system of the elderly. Furthermore, this strength pack tea can be consumed twice a day.

Benefits of Organic & Ayurvedic Drinks

Organic drinks contain beneficial microorganisms that assist our digestive health. As research on the gut microbiome progresses, we expect to gain a greater understanding of how our intestinal microorganisms affect the immune system.

Rather than focusing on immune system improvement, a more helpful strategy is to focus on balance. The immune system can be thought of as a scale spanning from abnormal malfunction to abnormal activity. Of course, we all know that an immune system that isn’t working properly is terrible. 

The overactive immune system may begin to target our cells. At the same time, immune reactions that are extremely potent might also result in animosity. Infections frequently cause severe diseases and deaths due to powerful immune responses.

Common Nutrients That Immunity Booster Drinks Provide Senior Citizens 

1. Protein

Immunity booster drinks supply the elderly with the necessary protein and amino acids, thereby strengthening their immune system. Protein serves numerous functions in your body. For instance, it aids in the healing and growth of your body’s tissues, allows metabolic reactions to occur, and organizes bodily operations. Moreover, proteins provide a structural basis for your body and also maintain optimum pH and fluid balance.

2. Vitamin A

These drinks also provide the necessary quantity of Vitamin A to the elderly. This vitamin is beneficial in preventing various age-related disorders, including preserving normal vision, supporting cell reproduction, and boosting the immune system. 

Vitamin A is required for healthy vision, the immune system, and reproduction. Also, it aids in the healthy functioning of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D promotes the regeneration of dead cells as well as the synthesis of new cells. These ayurvedic immune-boosting drinks also supply you with the necessary Vitamin D. 

It also aids in the regulation of calcium and phosphate levels in the body. These nutrients are required to maintain the health of bones, teeth, and muscles. Vitamin D deficiency can induce bone malformations in children, such as rickets, and bone discomfort in adults, known as osteomalacia.

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a vital immune-boosting substance for seniors, and it is commonly found in citrus drinks. Seniors who get enough vitamin C produce anti-infection cells. According to scientists, vitamin C is one of the safest and most effective nutrients. Moreover, vitamin C benefits may include immune system support, protection against cardiovascular disease, prenatal health issues, eye disease, and even skin aging.

5. Vitamin E

Vitamin E acts as an immune booster and antioxidant in the body. As a result, experts advise elders to increase their intake of Vitamin E. Vitamin E supplements help prevent coronary heart disease, boost immunological function, reduce inflammation, improve eye health, and lessen cancer risk. However, the research on these advantages is mixed, and vitamin E supplementation is not appropriate for everyone.

6. Vitamin B-6 and B-12

Vitamins B6 and B12 are also included in the immune booster drinks. B vitamins act as a rapid immune booster and energy booster in the elderly. Additionally, they are necessary for maintaining energy levels. The vitamins also have a slew of other advantages. Moreover, Vitamin B6 helps keep blood sugar levels regular, vitamin B12 protects against anemia, and folate (folic acid) helps prevent DNA alterations that could lead to cancer.

7. Zinc

These drinks also meet the zinc requirements. Zinc improves health and acts as an instant immune booster. At the same time, it is also essential for wound healing as well as your senses of taste and smell. Moreover, your body typically obtains enough zinc from a diverse diet. 

8. Iron

The majority of these beverages are high in iron, which is an essential component for developing adults. Iron is used by the body to produce hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that transports oxygen from the lungs to all body areas, and myoglobin, a protein that supplies oxygen to muscles. Iron is also required by your body to produce certain hormones.