5 Foods That Will Help Fight Colds and Flu

A list of 5 foods that will help fight colds and flu this winter.

A tingle in the back of your throat, a sniff and a cough. Suddenly, the need for a tissue. Flu season is here! This winter, bust the sniffles with this list of 5 foods that will fight colds and flu.

1. Garlic

Allicin, the major component found in garlic is responsible for fighting off the bacteria associated with colds and flu. Multiple studies have shown that people who use garlic often, or those that take garlic supplements, experienced fewer colds and flu symptoms. The best option is to chew on raw garlic, every three to four hours. If you are not keen on chewing on raw garlic (and the pungent smell thereof), add some garlic to your next meal. Even when cooked, it can fight the symptoms of colds and flu. Try these rosemary, garlic and lime butter mushrooms next time you feel a cough and a sniffle coming on.

2. Bananas 

Bananas are packed with vitamin B6 which helps your body fight infection. This wonder fruit is not only a great source of fibre and good carbs, but it also contains protein that can prevent infections from getting into cells.

3. Spices 

Spices like turmeric, cloves and cinnamon are packed with antioxidants which helps improve your immune system. It is suggested that you eat a teaspoon of these spices every day to help ward of a cold and the flu. Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon in your oats every morning when you start to feel ill. Turmeric is also considered to be a natural anti-inflammatory which will discard toxins from the body.

4. Sweet potatoes 

Although not normally considered as a superfood for fighting colds and flu, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A which aids in maintaining the health of your mucosal surfaces. By keeping your mucus membranes healthy, you will be able to stop infections from attacking your system. Try this recipe for sweet potato fries.

5. Home-made chicken soup 

Yes, good old home-made chicken soup is great for fighting colds and flu. Research found that this yummy broth is the perfect brew for fighting off symptoms of flu.