New Delhi, July 20 (IANS): Monsoon, along with providing a relief from the blazing sun, brings along the season of cold and flu. Children are especially prone to catching such infections in this weather.

Neha Sanwalka of AppyStore.in suggests seven top foods that parents should include in their child’s daily routine to boost immunity.

Hot Soups: Hot soups especially chicken or egg soup are the best food to boost your child’s immunity, reduce inflammation and fight infection. Addition of ginger, garlic, onions and other whole vegetables increases the anti-bacterial property of soups.

Seasonal Fruits: Monsoon fruits such as jamun, plums, cherries and peaches are a store house of anti-oxidants and vitamins that boost children’s immunity and help them fight infection. 

Nuts: Nuts are a rich source of proteins, good fatty acids, anti-oxidants such as carotenoids, selenium, B complex vitamins, vitamin C and concentrated source of energy making them ideal food to fight infection and promote growth in children.

Turmeric milk: The active component of turmeric “curcumin” is a powerful anti-oxidant and promotes immunity. A glass of turmeric milk before bed will help your child fight the common cold and flu and also help get a good night sleep.

Tulsi tea/kadha: Tulsi or basil leaves have anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and help improve immunity. Five to six tsp of tulsi tea/kadha every morning is a great way to keep your child disease free during the monsoon.

Ginger and honey: Ginger juice and honey combined together act as an elixir against common cold and flu. Ginger juice has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties whereas honey coats the throat giving a soothing feel. Ginger-honey juice works best when given at bed time. 

Egg/chicken/fish/dals: Lastly it’s very important to include a good source of protein at each meal to promote growth and build immunity.