12 Powerful Flu Fighting Foods
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Eating may not be fun when you have the flu, but a couple of additions to your diet may help relieve symptoms and reduce your recovery time.
1. Beans
Beans are also a good food because of its vitamins and minerals. It contains iron that increases the amount of red blood cells and zinc which is well-known for treating the cold and flu. Beans also have folic acid, one of the B vitamins needed for health.
2. Oysters
Oysters are one of the richest sources of zinc, offering 22 milligrams per ounce. Although healthy adults only need 8 – 11 milligrams per day, consuming extra zinc when sick may speed the recovery process.
3. Honey
According to a study in the FASEB Journal, even small doses of natural honey can help fight off infections. Additionally, honey has been shown to suppress coughs, boost energy, and act as an anti-inflammatory agent.
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4. Ginger
In addition to having powerful antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can aid in digestion and fight symptoms of nausea. Thanks to its natural spiciness, breathing in ginger can also provide congestion relief.
5. Garlic
Technically an herb, garlic may be able to reduce recovery time thanks to an antimicrobial compound called allicin.
6. Grapefruit
Grapefruits are rich in flavonoids, a group of compounds known to increase immune system activation.
7. Watermelon
Watermelons contain a great amount of glutathione, particularly in the pulpy area near the rind. A powerful antioxidant, glutathione strengthens the immune system and helps fight infections.
8. Spinach
From promoting cellular growth and regeneration to supporting DNA synthesis and repair, the folic acid found in dark leafy greens has many important health-supporting properties.
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9. Chicken Soup
Warm liquids can help loosen mucus and ease sore throats. The extra B vitamins and protein from the chicken are an added bonus.
10. Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are a great source of vitamin E. In addition to providing cardiovascular support, vitamin E has proven immune-boosting, antioxidant properties.
11. Dark chocolate
Quality dark chocolate contains high levels of cocoa, a food with potent antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory potential, and the ability to aid the body’s defense against infection.
12. Yellow Bell Peppers
A large yellow pepper contains almost five times as much vitamin C as an average-sized orange. Not only can vitamin C boost immunity, the antioxidant may actively aid in recovery from the flu.
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