The cold and flu season has begun. While there is no way to cure the common cold or the flu, healthy eating during cold and flu season can help prevent you getting sick.
Researchers have found positive links between immune function and components in food.
Garlic may boost your immune system, increasing resistance to infection and stress. Raw garlic is an expectorant – good for chest infections and coughs.
Yoghurts and other dairy products contain probiotics, beneficial bacterial with immune boosting benefits. Also check dairy product labels for vitamin D. Early research suggests low levels of vitamin D may be linked to a seasonal increase in colds and flu and a higher incidence of respiratory infections.
Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and juices, may also help the body’s immune system.
Zinc, found in meat, chicken, peanuts and peanut butter, plays an important role in the proper functioning of the immune system in the body
Healthy eating during cold and flu season means getting the daily requirement of essential vitamins and minerals by eating a balanced diet that contains a variety of foods from all food groups.
Boost your immune system
Healthy bodies have an easier time fighting off infection. To stay healthy and boost your immune system:
- Get plenty of rest. Get at least seven to eight hours sleep a night.
- Eat a well-balanced diet. Healthy foods such as vegetables, fruit, grains, etc. are an important part of keeping your body nutrition at its best. Processed, fatty, and sugary foods don’t give the immune boosting protection that healthier food does.
- Exercise regularly.
- Reduce stress levels.
- Keep well hydrated. Dehydration inhibits the immune system’s functioning.
- Cut back on unhealthy habits, such as smoking and over consumption of alcohol
Studies have shown that a session of moderate physical activity produces positive effects on the immune system. Over time, this means catching fewer colds and other upper respiratory tract infections.
Tags: 5 a day, activity, carlow, cold, dietitian, flu, healthy eating, kilkenny, nutrition, nutritional concepts, vitamins and minerals, winter
