Add these natural anti-virals to your diet

As the number of infections and death rates of Coronavirus cases continues to increase, it is important for healthy individuals to stay safe while boosting their immunity. Here is a list of foods that have natural anti-viral properties and will help prevent getting sick.YoghurtNatural yogurt contains probiotics which help in the absorption of nutrients and controlling inflammation processes. Research has shown that probiotics also help promote the production of antibodies and can optimize the body's response to viral infections. Other studies have found that these nutrients enhance respiratory tract immunity and can speed up recovery.CinnamonStudies conducted have shown that cinnamon is effective in deactivating viruses in some organisms. This herb also acted as a popular remedy of the Spanish flu that occurred in 1918. Although cinnamon has a variety of health benefits, it should be consumed in small quantities.Apple Cider VinegarPeople have long used apple cider vinegar in a variety of ways such as disinfecting wounds. This vinegar has antimicrobial properties that kill bacteria, yeast and fungal infections. These properties help ease common cold symptoms in patients. Apple cider vinegar also contains polyphenolic compounds that act as antioxidants and prevent the formation of free radicals which are known to cause cancer.GingerGinger has been long used to help manage common cold symptoms and also to prevent getting the flu. Studies have shown that fresh ginger inhibits viral attachment and internalization and that it is more effective than dried ginger. Additionally, a solution of fresh ginger was found to have antiviral properties against the human respiratory syncytial virus.Shiitake mushroomsThese are the most popular mushrooms in the world due to their savory taste and many health benefits. They are tan to dark brown in color and contain a variety of bio-active compounds such as Zinc, Folate and Vitamin D. Vitamin D is known to decrease the chances of developing viral infections. Studies have shown that these mushrooms may boost immune system and improve inflammation levels.GarlicResearch done have shown that garlic has compounds such as allicin and diallyl trisulfide which decrease the severity of viruses and promotes fast recovery from illnesses such as common colds. Garlic has also been reported to have anti-diabetic, antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties among others which greatly help individuals from easily acquiring bacterial and viral infections.Black tea Tea leaves contain naturally occurring components such as caffeine, catechins and polyphenols among others which protect the plants from getting bacterial and viral infections. Research has found that the catechins found in tea leaves are very effective in preventing influenza infection and a number of common cold viruses. Additionally, black tea is known to have flavonoids which have been proved to lower the risk of heart-related diseases.