During this period strengthening the immune system with a menu against influenza is crucial because as many specialists now advise that diet is the first medicine we can use to defend ourselves.
Foods to Prevent flu
The cells responsible for caring for our immune system are mostly found in our intestine; for this reason, the intake of probiotic foods that combined with prebiotic foods is so important as they contribute significantly to strengthening our natural defenses. Specifically, having breakfast with a yoghurt, kefir or other fermented vegetable products, and nuts, oats, bananas (which together with leeks, artichokes, asparagus, tomatoes, onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, beets or legumes, have important prebiotic properties), help our bodies to multiply our defenses.
Introducing all trace elements into the diet is essential as they are effective in strengthening the immune system; seasonal fruits and vegetables, fish, whole grain carbohydrates are the right foods to handle influenza viruses. Green leafy vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, broccoli, contain magnesium, folic acid and beta-carotene which strengthen the cells.
Peppers, like all orange-red vegetables are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins and have great anti-inflammatory power. Fresh fish, especially bluefish, is super helpful in eradicating infections; omega 3 and vitamin D together with iodine, zinc and copper which this food contains, make them exceptional in weakening viruses. In addition to eating the right foods, you mustn’t forget to drink lots of liquids to hydrate the respiratory mucosa and make them more resistant to microbial attack.
Foods for flu to fight the first symptoms
If you already have a cough eliminate dairy products for a few days because they contain substances that promote the formation of mucus and therefore increase phlegm. To thin it on the other hand you can use chili pepper, vegetables or pasta. If you have nausea or diarrhea it’s better to stay light and drink a lot to rehydrate. Yes to hot drinks like green tea and herbal teas, water and juices rich in vitamin C. It’s better to avoid fizzy drinks or fruit juices which are rich in sugar and could have a diuretic action and increase dehydration.
Foods for flu to find your energy
If on the other hand the flu has passed, regain your strength with plenty of whole grain carbohydrates combined with legumes such as beans or lentils; pasta will give you the energy to regain your strength, while the fibers from the legumes will help the intestine to recreate good bacterial flora. If you’ve taken various medicines you can restore bacterial flora with yoghurt, which is an excellent detoxifier.