In the fall and winter months, a combination of dry air and colder temperatures can make psoriasis symptoms worse. Further, warmer, heavier clothing can cause sensitive skin to be itchier and more irritated. But the colder weather doesn’t mean you have to tough out flare-ups and worsening symptoms until spring.
Given how important your immune system is to your health, taking steps to protect your immune system can go a long way in keeping you healthy. If you have a compromised immune system, you can become very sick even if you are exposed to the type of infectious organisms that don’t normally cause serious harm.
In order to prepare your immune system to fight psoriasis during the colder days we bring you list of 10 powerful autumn ingredients which will improve your immunity, feed your body with much needed vitamins, reduce inflammations and repair your skin:
1. Apples:
Apples are high in soluble fiber which helps lower cholesterol and are rich with vitamin C. They also contain polyphenols, which are linked to lower blood pressure and stroke risk. Apples contain pectin, a type of fiber that acts as a prebiotic. This means it feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Apples are incredibly good for you and eating them is linked to a lower risk of many major diseases, including diabetes and cancer. Apples can help convert immune cells that were pro-inflammatory into anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting ones.
2. Beets:
Beets can help improve the appearance of skin. Beets are loaded with antioxidants, which fight against damaging free radicals. Free radicals cause cellular damage and are partly responsible for the visible signs of aging. The powerhouse antioxidants that beets contain are phytonutrients called betalain.
Beets fight inflammation. It helps to defend the body against foreign invaders, repair damaged tissue and helps in the healing process. Beets can help reduce the intensity of chronic inflammation because they contain the amino acid betaine.
Because beets are rich in nitrates (which is converted into nitric oxide by the body), they help to relax and dilate blood vessels, resulting in better circulation and a possible drop in blood pressure.
3. Broccoli:
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s reputed to benefit digestion, the cardiovascular system and the immune system, and to have anti-inflammatory and even cancer-preventing properties. Plus, broccoli is low in sodium and calories, at about 31 calories per serving. It’s also a fat-free vegetable.
4. Brussels sprouts:
Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. They may also come with added health benefits, including the potential to reduce the risk of cancer, decrease inflammation and improve blood sugar control.
5. Garlic:
Garlic is a lipoxygenase inhibitor, which means that it can help stop the activity of enzymes responsible for inflammation. IT has been used for its natural antibiotic properties for thousands of years and you may have taken advantage of it in soups when you’ve had a cold.
6. Carrots:
Carrots contain vitamin A, minerals and antioxidants such as beta-carotene, which is what gives them their orange hue. Carrots help keep skin healthy and clear due to the vitamin C and antioxidants. Carrots contain vitamin C which helps stimulate collagen production in the body. Collagen is key for maintaining skin elasticity, and it helps prevent wrinkles. Carrots are rich in potassium, which can help keep your skin hydrated and soft. The antioxidants in carrots help to treat minor skin conditions such as pimples and mild acne, rashes and dermatitis. One thing to bear in mind with carrots is that if you eat too many of them, your skin can turn yellow-orange in color temporarily! Carrots can help prevent hair loss, as they nourish your hair with vital vitamins, which makes it stronger and shinier. Drinking carrot juice regularly can also help keep your hair healthy.
7. Cauliflower:
Cauliflower is filled to the brim with toxin-fighting properties that get rid of impurities within the skin, and water is very abundant in the vegetable which keeps the skin hydrated. The antioxidants in cauliflower fight free radicals and stabilizes them, which prevents damage to cells. A few of the many vitamins in cauliflower include vitamin B2, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, dietary fiber, choline, magnesium, vitamin B1, and niacin. Each of these vitamins contribute to beautiful skin and lifelong positive health benefits.
8. Grapes:
Filled with Vitamin C and antioxidants, grapes can help to revitalize your skin. In fact, they can even protect your skin from cancer-causing ultraviolet radiation and free radicals that can, on a lesser scale, cause wrinkles and dark spots. The added Vitamin C is necessary for your skin to form collagen, which helps give your face that youthful firmness.
9. Mushrooms:
With anti-inflammatory properties, mushrooms can help improve acne, rosacea and eczema. They are also rich in vitamin D, selenium and antioxidants that protect your skin against wrinkles and discoloration caused by environmental damage. And with thousands of kinds of mushrooms ranging from basic white button to more exotic varieties, the possibilities are endless. Just be careful not to eat any poisonous mushrooms.
10. Squash:
Plant foods like butternut squash that are high in both vitamin C and beta-carotene can help boost immunity. High-fiber foods may also contribute to better immune function. Butternut squash can enhance the hair and skin because of its high vitamin A content. Vitamin A is needed for sebum production, which keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A plays an important role in the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.
