Cold and Flu Fighters
The cold weather is here, and it means that viruses, colds and flu are around the corner.
There are many ways to prevent colds and flu. Washing our hands, maintaining healthy habits combined to eating fresh, organic, foods packed with nutritional value are the key.
Let’s take a look at some of the best cold and flu fighter foods.
Cayenne pepper:
- This hot spice contains an ingredient called capsaicin, which can be beneficial for colds and flu. It is often used for its ability to clear mucus from a stuffy nose, lungs, and clears up congestion. Cayenne pepper is also an excellent source of vitamin A and beta-carotene, two antioxidants known for their immune boosting properties.
Chicken soup:
- A study from the University of Nebraska Medical Center shows that chicken soup may be beneficial for colds and flu. “A variety of soup preparations were evaluated and found to be variably, but generally, able to inhibit neutrophil chemotaxis,” Dr. Rennard the head of the study said. “The current study, therefore, presents evidence that chicken soup might have an anti-inflammatory activity.” Inflammation is one of the main causes of cold and flu symptoms.
Cinnamon:
- If the cold or flu is causing body aches or muscle pains, cinnamon can help. Cinnamon has a warming effect and can help when the person is feeling weak from the flu. It also has immune boosting properties.
Citrus fruits:
- Fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruit are considered potent anti-flu and anti-cold foods. They are packed with vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps fight colds and flu.
Garlic:
- It is nature’s antibiotic. Garlic is widely used to treat and prevent colds and flu. A study done in the UK suggests that the participants who took garlic supplements were “less likely to get a cold and recovered faster if infected.”
Ginger:
- It promotes sweating, which is a great form of natural detoxification. Ginger doesn’t just help with detoxification; sweat contains a compound called dermicidin which provides protection against bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and fungi including candida. According to health specialist Lindsey Duncan for the Dr. Oz Show, “Ginger is a natural anti-viral, so it will help fight off pesky illnesses and has been shown to heat up the human body to help induce fever. Fever is the body’s natural defense against cold and flu, and with a little help from this powerful herb, you can attack the root of your flu and find faster relief from your symptoms.”
Turmeric:
- The superstar spice is potent for many ailments and overall health. It is often referred to as a superstar spice or the “Indian solid gold.” It has anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve congestion, and it has antiviral and antibacterial properties, which aid in clearing infections and viruses.
Water:
- Last but not least, make sure you drink plenty of water. This is important because it flushes toxins out of the body and keeps the body hydrated so you have the strength to fight colds and flu.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only. DON’T FORGET to sign up for our weekly newsletter to get our latest articles, updates, free recipes and giveaways.
REFERENCES:
- 1. Cerino, Vicky. “Got a Cold or Flu? Try Chicken Soup to Ease Symptoms.” UNMC News. UNMC News, 02 Dec. 2008. Web. 05 Oct. 2013.
- 2. “Preventing the Common Cold with a Garlic Supplement: A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Survey.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 05 Oct. 2013.
- 3. Duncan, Lindsey, ND, CN. “Ginger, a Powerful Herb.” The Dr. Oz Show. The Dr. Oz Show, 16 May 2011. Web. 05 Oct. 2013.\
