
5 Foods for Meningitis Prevention
Meningitis is a disease that affects the protective membranes that cushion the brain and spinal cord. Meningococcal and Neisseria meningitidis bacteria are significant causes of meningitis B. Though toddlers, kids, and young adults are most at risk, the infection can attack healthy adults without warning. Meningitis causes severe blood poisoning (meningococcal septicemia) and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Fortunately, you can eat foods to boost your immune system’s defense against the microorganisms that cause meningitis B. below are the best foods to eat for meningitis B prevention:
1. Water and clear fluids
The human body quickly digests water and clear fluids. Water helps cleanse the body of bacteria and viruses that cause many types of infections, including meningitis B. Clear liquids also nourish your body by providing water, calories, and electrolytes, which are essential to achieving a robust immune system. Clear liquids may include water, tea, or coffee without milk and clear juices without pulp.
2. Lean proteins
Lean proteins are an essential component of any balanced diet. Though protein needs may vary based on an individual’s age, sex, activity level, and weight, consuming lean meat is the best way to achieve your daily protein quota. Fish such as cod, tilapia, salmon, and haddock are excellent omega 3 fats and lean protein sources. The omega 3 fatty acids are crucial in the prevention of management of many illnesses ranging from heart disease to meningitis B.
3. Whole grains
Whole grain-based meals provide plenty of benefits to the human body. Regular consumption of whole grains lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, meningitis B, and many other illnesses. Whole grain meals are particularly rich in fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, proteins, and mineral compounds which help keep your immune system in prime condition. Brown rice, sorghum, barley, oatmeal, millet, and wheat berry are good wholemeal options that enhance the immune system. Processed foods such as breakfast cereal, pasta, and bread are also considered whole grain meals as long as they are made entirely from whole grains
4. Fresh fruits and vegetables
A daily diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables will boost your immune health and lower the risk of heart disease, hypertension, meningitis, and certain types of cancer. Citrus fruits are particularly rich in vitamin C, which helps rebuild the immune system after an illness. Vitamin C in fruits is also essential in producing white blood cells, which help fight off infections. Spinach, broccoli, and green peppers are also packed with vitamin C, A, and E. besides providing vitamins and essential minerals; leafy vegetables are rich in beta carotene and antioxidants, which boost the disease-fighting ability of your immune system
5. Bone broth
Many doctors recommend consuming chicken soup and a host of other bone broths whenever you fall sick or come down with a cold. Bone soup has many benefits to the immune system. It helps lower inflammation of body cells, which is a crucial symptom in meningitis B. Broth from chicken and turkey is particularly rich in vitamin B-6, which plays a vital role in the body’s chemical reactions. More importantly, Vitamin B-6 helps form new and healthy red blood cells. Lastly, bone broth and stock from poultry are rich in gelatin and chondroitin, which are crucial in the healing and recovery process.