3 Immunity-Boosting Foods for Flu Season

Wednesday - August 10th, 2016

Getting sick during the holidays is no fun for anyone. In order to stay healthy this flu season, you want to strengthen your first line of defense: your immune system. What you eat is an important factor; check out some great things to munch on for your immunity:

1.) Micronutrients: The micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) in foods are vital for warding off illness. Make sure you’re getting plenty of Vitamin A, B2, B6, C, D, E, zinc and selenium. The best foods containing these are:

Leafy greens like spinach and kale
Nuts like almonds and peanuts
Fruits like bananas and oranges
Cold-water fish like tuna
Foods high in carotenoids like carrots
Sweet potatoes and pumpkins

2.) Probiotics: There are hundreds of different kinds of bacteria in the digestive tract, and there is some evidence that having the right amount of “good bacteria” has a positive effect on the immune system. Probiotics are good bacteria that can be found in dairy products, like yogurt and kefir.

3.) Teas: An amino acid called L-theanine, found in green and black teas, has been shown to help the body fight off viruses. In one study, people who drank several cups of tea a week had more ability to fight off viral infections than those who drank a placebo.

In addition to eating well, it’s always important to wash your hands and have good hygiene.

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