This is an archive article published on May 18, 2020

Immunity boosters: Add these food groups to your grocery list

Look out for these five food groups to add the right balance of nutrients to your diet.

3 min readNew DelhiJun 3, 2020 09:40 AM IST First published on: May 18, 2020 at 12:30 PM IST

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Your checklist for your next grocery list should include these items. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Considering the food we eat has a direct impact on our bodies, it is extremely important to pay close attention to what we are consuming. Which is why when you step out to buy essential groceries, make sure you divide your list into five food groups so that you purchase items which have the requisite nutrients, suggested nutritionist Nmami Agarwal in an Instagram post.

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“During the lockdown, healthy eating is more important than ever. The food you eat has a direct impact on your body’s defense mechanism. There are five major food groups which, if included in your daily diet, work synergistically to keep you healthy. So, having food items with these nutrients is important,” she said.

She added, “However, going out for groceries daily is not advisable. So, once you decide to go out, it’s important to bring in the right foods to keep you(self) healthy. Below are the five essential nutrients and corresponding food items that you need to stock up (during) this lockdown!”

Here is what she recommended:

Carbohydrates

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Time to include bajra in your diet. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Since your movement is restricted during the lockdown, fatigue may set in easily. Carbs give you the energy to stay active all day. Sources: wheat, jowar and bajra.

Proteins

Proteins play a direct role in building immunity, as the antibodies (fighters of the body) are made of proteins. Sources: pulses, lean meat, eggs, dairy.

Healthy fats

Fats are crucial for the functioning of the nervous system and absorption of vitamins. But, remember to choose healthy fats in the form of nuts, eggs, lean meat, and oils like coconut oil, sesame oil.

Vitamins

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Oranges are a rich source of Vitamin C. (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Vitamins, especially C and D, are primarily responsible for boosting your immune system. Vitamin C also helps fight respiratory diseases. Also, with most people locked up at home and no exposure to sun, vitamin D levels are at risk of falling, hence you must look for foods rich in Vitamin D. Sources: kiwi, orange, dairy products.

Minerals

Minerals like zinc and magnesium are extremely important for building immunity since they play a role in critical biological reactions. They have proven effects in reducing cold. Sources: nuts, whole grains, leafy greens.