Cow milk and cocoa, together, are not only the ingredients of the most popular drink for adults and children in winter, but also seem to have benefits on the immune system. Milk and cocoa, that is, black chocolate, are among the foods that have been shown to be able to positively modulate the immune system – explains Professor Carlo Selmi, responsible for Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology of Humanitas and lecturer at the University of Milan. In milk, for example, there are some sugars called oligosaccharides and type A immunoglobulins, which are molecules both involved in the immune response of the human organism. Along with milk and cocoa, probiotics, often contained in yoghurt help the immune system to be efficient in responding to viral and bacterial infections. However, it is important to note that milk and cocoa or yoghurt is not sufficient to maintain a strong and efficient immune system. To this end, it is recommended to follow a healthy lifestyle, a varied and balanced diet, avoid smoking, practice sports and stay active every day, in order to help the immune system to function well. These are valid advice all year round, and not only to be used in autumn or winter to prevent the diseases of the season.