5 FOODS TO GET YOU THROUGH FLU SEASON

IN THE midst of autumn and winter seasons, we tend to crave comforting meals to make it through the cold and dark periods.

While the best thing you can do to prevent illness is to stay warm and get your flu shot, some foods can help to boost your health and immunity.

The immune-boosting foods listed below can help strengthen your body’s natural defence system.

Citrus fruit

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and clementines are rich in vitamin C, which your T-cells need to function properly. Unlike powdered vitamin C drinks, these fruits are also rich in phytonutrients that work as strong antioxidants to fight off harmful bacteria.

Spices and spicy foods

Spices promote sweating and are often used to help break a fever. You may also be able to unclog your stuffy nose by generously spicing up some dishes.

Hot tea

Hot tea can also help clear your sinuses and keep you hydrated. Varieties of tea also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Sweet potato

While sweet potatoes may not be considered a traditional cold-fighting food, they are a source of vitamin A, which plays a key role in maintaining the health of your nose and your gastrointestinal tract as well as your skin.

Honey

Raw honey is naturally warm and eating it helps to keep the body warm, too. Honey is good for keeping colds, coughs and flu at bay as it strengthens the immune system.