With diseases spreading around the world, you might be wondering if there is anything you can do to protect you and your family.
There are a number of foods and vitamins that will help you prevent the flu, or help you reduce the effects of the symptoms and the duration of your attack should you get the flu:
Foods that strengthen your immune system –
Almonds, apricots, broccoli, canteloupe, carrots, cashews, celery, chicken, chocolate, citrus fruits, garlic, dark greens, eggs, fruits, garlic, green tea, mango, meat, mushrooms, onion, peaches, peanuts, pineapple, pumpkin, spinach, squash, sweet potato, tomato, tomato products, walnuts, watermelon.
Essential nutrients – Anti-oxidants (especially vitamins C & E and lycopene), Vitamin A, Vitamin D (get out in the sun a little!), Omega 3s, folate, protein, magnesium, and zinc.
It is vitally important to get exercise and reduce stress. Exercise reduces stress, so the two go hand in hand. Breathing exercises and Yoga help too.
Foods that act as anti-viral-
Apple, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, cayenne, garlic, herbs, honey, lemon, mustard, onion, plums, raspberries.
Foods that help you reduce your flu symptoms and duration –
Garlic, Echinacea, Cayenne pepper, Lemon juice (fresh), Tomato Juice, Orange juice, Vitamin C, Ginger, Green tea, Chicken Soup.
Avoid Dairy
Use steam or humidifier.
If you know you have been exposed to flu, don’t wait for symptoms. Start your attack right away – eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking orange juice and green tea, and taking your vitamins – especially vitamin C, vitamin D, and Zinc. It’s no coincidence that flu season starts when we have less exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is very important.
And please, if you are feeling sick – stay home. Do not go to school, or to work, or to the mall…
