Wednesday, 17 April 2013

Today’s Usage Tip: Fruits and Vegetables effective for sore throat relief.

A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is a common symptom that often accompanies health conditions such as a sinus infection, cold or flu. Easing the irritation of a sore throat with healthful ingredients is the best treatment approach because most of them are caused by viruses that need to run their course. A bacterial infection is less common and requires a doctor's care. A medical test can determine the cause. A physician's visit is also required in cases when symptoms are severe or a fever higher than 101 F accompanies the sore throat.

Antioxidants
Antioxidants find and destroy harmful compounds in the bloodstream called free radicals, which sometimes interfere with the body's normal processes, including the immune system response. Fruits high in antioxidants include blueberries, cranberries, apples and plums. These ingredients in varying combinations will create a flavorful, antioxidant-rich juice. Add a piece of ginger. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, its active ingredient, gingerol, helps alleviate sore throats, and it complements the flavors of apples and cranberries.

Vitamin C
The nutrient with the best reputation for improving immune system response is vitamin C, according to the website of pediatrician and nutrition expert Dr. Bill Sears. It coats cells with interferon, an antiobody that fights viruses. It may prevent the sore throat from spreading or lasting longer than a normal course. Fruits high in vitamin C include oranges, pineapple, strawberries, watermelon and papaya. Pairing a citrus with a berry or tropical fruit dilutes its acid content, which is important for preventing sore throat irritation.
 
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that boosts the immune system. It stimulates the production of white blood cells that fight infection. The foods that contain zinc are primarily greens, grains and meats, but two fruits contain a high enough amount to contribute significantly to the FDA daily value: raspberries and blackberries. Juicing them together with a fruit that will thin the juice, such as apples, creates a flavorful, zinc-rich beverage.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is particularly important for stimulating the immune system for the aging adult population, who may have sluggish immune systems, according to Sears. Raspberries, blackberries and peaches not only contain vitamin E, they also have complementary flavors. Tomatoes, which are technically a fruit, also contain vitamin E, and their moist consistency yields a high juice volume per tomato.
References

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