5 foods to help prevent the flu

To prevent the flu, in addition to washing your hands regularly and getting a flu vaccine, you should also eat foods that help boost your immunity.

Dr. Adrian Cotton, head of the Department of Medicine at Loma Linda University Hospital (USA) suggests that people should regularly eat the following 5 foods that help prevent the flu virus.

Garlic and onions

Garlic and onions have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. This is because they contain compounds such as alliin and sulfur molecules that help the body fight bacteria. In addition, these compounds can reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms by enhancing the activity of the body's virus-killing cells.

Citrus fruits

Fruits like grapefruit, oranges, and tangerines are packed with vitamin C, which can help fight the flu. This vitamin can help shorten the duration of symptoms, boost circulation, and boost your immune system.

Mushroom

Not only are mushrooms delicious, they also have antiviral and immune-boosting properties, which can help prevent the risk of flu. This is due to the special sugars called beta-glucan that help regulate the body's immune system.

Additionally, mushrooms have several other benefits including reducing stress and providing the body with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties.

Ginger

Ginger contains sesquiterpenes, which are compounds that are particularly beneficial in preventing viruses that cause colds and flu. Ginger also has other benefits, including suppressing coughs and fighting inflammation, which can help fight infection.

Foods rich in selenium

Selenium is a mineral that can boost the body's immune system. Selenium promotes the body's production of cytokines, which fight the flu virus. Selenium is found in brown rice, sunflower seeds, oats, lentils, spinach, cashews, bananas, milk, and yogurt.

To prevent flu, in addition to supplementing the above foods, Dr. Cotton also recommends that people need to drink enough water and reduce consumption of processed foods.

“It is important to be conscious of what we put into our bodies, especially during a flu outbreak. People should drink enough water because water helps to remove toxins that are harmful to the immune system.

At the same time, it is necessary to reduce the amount of processed foods and focus on whole foods such as fruits and vegetables. These foods will provide the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals.", said Dr. Cotton./.