Covid-19: Turn to good ol’ ber for immunity

As Covid-19 cases witness yet another surge, so has the curiosity around ways to increase immunity. While experts have been recommending foods, drinks and spices to boost immunity, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar took everyone on a nostalgic trip. She reminded her social media followers about the richness and goodness of ber or jujube.

These little wonders that you may recall having from the roadside stall outside your school, college or office premises, are a ball full of nutrition! Ber is a local superfood which is rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals. This sweet and tarty food is full of antioxidants, vitamins C and B1, B2.

Apart from boosting immunity, ber can also help to reduce anxiety and manage diabetes.

Benefits of ber:

1. Reduces anxiety:

Dr Pooja Chopra, senior dermatologist Àakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital, tells HealthShots, “The ber fruit and seeds are both high in flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides. Saponin is a natural sleep promoter with sedative properties that help induce sleep by soothing the entire nervous system. This fruit also has calming effects on the brain. It also aids in the reduction of anxiety. The sedative properties of jujube fruit or jujube oil extract are also known to affect hormonal levels and induce a calm, relaxed feeling in the mind and body.

2. Helps in treating constipation

Chopra comments, “Jujube’s high fiber content aids in the regulation of bowel movements and digestion. Those who suffer from constipation should definitely include them in their diet. It is a highly nourishing fruit to treat constipation and other gut-related issues.”

3. Boosts immunity

Rujuta Diwekar says ber is a “great fruit for your kids who fall sick often”. This winter, jujube or ber – as we call it in India – is a very healthy fruit to eat. It helps in fighting diseases and boosts immunity, which all of us need to guard ourselves against the growing Covid-19 web.

4. Magical fruit for diabetes and hypertension patients

Dietitian Garima Goyal says ber has a high amount of potassium and low sodium, and so it is great for keeping blood pressure in check. “Jujubes have a low salt content and a high potassium content, which ensures that your diabetes stays in control. They are high in iron and phosphorus, and also help to regulate blood circulation.”

5. Stronger bones

Chopra comments, “Jujubes may also help you build stronger bones. They are high in calcium, phosphorus, and iron, all of which help to strengthen bones. Those suffering from osteoporosis and other bone-degrading diseases”. So, you must consume this fruit in order to reverse the effects or better manage the condition.

6. Treats dandruff and skin problems:

In addition, they are particularly high in vitamin C, which aids in the vitalization of the skin, the fight against free radicals, and the strengthening of the immune system which keeps the diseases at bay. Diwekar adds, “Ber are lethal for dandruff and secret for glowing skin. Hence, consume ber for healthy and glowing skin and treat dandruff.”

Aren’t these little fruits big on health benefits?