There are plenty of immune boosting supplements available for purchase, but getting these ingredients naturally from the food you consume is the most potent boost you can get. Along with avoiding contact with sick people and frequent hand washing, eating the right foods is an important step in staying healthy during cold and flu season. Try incorporating some of the following into your diet:
- Citrus: The whole family of citrus fruits contains large amounts of vitamin C, which can ward away illness and reduce cold symptoms by up to 23 percent. You can also get vitamin C from berries, papaya, squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes and bell peppers.
- Ginger: Steeping slices of fresh ginger root in your tea can ease a sore throat, suppress coughing and reduce fevers, which makes you feel better much faster.
- Hot tea: Brewed green and black tea (not the sugary bottled drinks) contains antioxidants, which combat illness. It also helps to thin mucus and hydrate your body.
- Mushrooms: Shitake, maitake and reishi mushrooms help the body fight off infection, while giving your immune system a powerful cold- and flu-fighting boost.
- Yogurt: Organic low-fat yogurt that contains a specific strain of good bacteria called Lactobacillus reuteri can block the replication of viruses in your body and reduce your susceptibility to colds by up to 25 percent. A 7-ounce serving packs the same punch as taking probiotic supplements.
- Honey: With natural antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties, honey helps your body fight off infection of all types. A spoonful can also ease a sore throat on its way down to your stomach.
- Garlic and onion: Cook these two ingredients into your chicken noodle soup or other favorite dishes for a powerful boost, thanks to their antiseptic properties. Garlic also helps open up clogged sinuses.
Eating plenty of fruits and veggies, in an assortment of colors, gives your body the nutrition needed to function smoothly. Dark, leafy greens and berries especially have powerful antioxidant properties to help your body fight off those nasty cold and flu germs.
Your health goes much farther beyond your diet. Call Adcock-Adcock Insurance Agency at (813) 933-6691 for more information on Tampa health insurance.