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Every year when the weather cools down, the risk of contracting the flu heightens, even if you’ve had a flu shot. There are, after all, dozens of different strains of influenza that can affect people 1 year or older.
Although you may think your changes of not contracting the flu are good the risks are extremely high during peak flu seasons. Thankfully, there are actually some simple prevention tips to keep from getting sick. Here, you’ll discover five foods that can boost your immune system, keeping you well throughout flu season.
Blueberries –
Blueberries might look unassuming, but they pack a punch when it comes to nutrition. Blueberries are chock-full of antioxidants, including powerful flavonoids, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. Throwing a few blueberries into your morning oatmeal or making an afternoon smoothie that includes them are two easy ways to bolster your immunity.
Citrus fruits –
Just about everyone knows that citrus fruits, including grapefruits, mangoes, and oranges, are full of Vitamin C. In fact, that’s why your mom always told you to drink orange juice when you were sick as a kid! Eating one of these fruits with your breakfast is an excellent way to increase your daily intake of Vitamin C during the colder months, not to mention they have a tropical taste that will help wash away the winter blues!
Cruciferous vegetables –
Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale, contain a cocktail of vitamins and antioxidants that are essential for the immune system’s functionality. To get the most out of these greens, eat them raw or very lightly cooked; cooking them too long can eliminate some of the health benefits.
Green tea –
People have been using green tea to boost their overall health and treat ailments for thousands of years. One of the key reasons this beverage is so good for you is that it contains catechin, an antioxidant that has been shown to increase immunity. If you’ve never drunk green tea before, you might have to try it several different ways before you find your favorite option; green tea with honey is a particularly popular choice.
Nuts –
Although all nuts have known health benefits, almonds are especially useful for boosting immunity. Just a half cup of almonds per day provides your body with Vitamin E, protein, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Although none of these vitamins boost immune health as efficiently as Vitamin C, they are still crucial for overall wellness.
Adding these immune-boosting foods to your everyday diet will help keep you in good health not just during flu season, but all year long. If you aren’t sure how to incorporate them into your daily meal plan, talk to your doctor or a certified nutritionist.
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