Ward Off Cold and Flu

So far, scientists, researchers and doctors have not found a cure for the common cold virus, maybe because at least 200 viruses can cause symptoms of the common cold. Treating the coughing, runny nose, stuffy nose, headache, aches, and fever associated with the common cold has become a billion dollar industry in over the counter medications in the United States.

But some new research suggests that what you eat (and what you don't eat) can prevent a person from catching the cold or the flu virus, or at least to be less susceptible. Read on for ways to protect you and your family this winter.

Lay off the sugar. Current wisdom has it that sugar may compromise your body's immune system. Some people go so far as to eliminate most fruits and honey during cold and flu season. I don't know if we need to go that far, but anecdotal research does show that cutting back on sugar helps the immune system to function better. Too bad cold and flu season happens right about when we are finishing up Halloween candy, and baking Christmas treats.

Vitamin C. Lots of vitamin C is important to help our body ward off the cold and flu viruses. Good ways to get vitamin C in foods is to eat bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, kiwi and of course, citrus fruits and juices. It is even more important to up your intake of vitamin C if you smoke, since smoking tobacco depletes your body of vitamin C.

Blueberries are sometimes called natural aspirin, since they have the ability to lower fevers and relieve aches and pains associated with cold and flu. Blueberries can also curb diarrhea , also a side effect of the cold and flu virus. Eating rice and bananas also have a soothing effect on the digestive system, and help curb diarrhea. Cranberries are credited with preventing bacteria from sticking to the bladder and urinary tract, so you won't end up with a bladder or urinary tract infection on top of your cold. Cranberries are tart, mix with honey to taste.

Carrots are a good source of carotenoids, one of the antioxidants known help keep our immune systems working. Other good sources for beta-carotene, lutein and lycopene (all carotenoids) are sweet potatoes, peaches, squash, pumpkin, and dark leafy greens, like spinach, kale or bok choy. No wonder our fall menus are full of pumpkin, squash and sweet potato dishes!

Vitamin E in the form of avocados, sunflower seeds, nuts and nut butters, olive and canola oil, and even in the sweet potato is another potent way to improve your body's immune system so you can fight off the cold and flu viruses.

Zinc is another weapon the body uses to fight off viruses. You can increase your intake of zinc by eating such things as poultry, eggs, whole grains, leafy vegetables, and prunes. Whole grains, poultry and eggs also contain a vital nutrient called selenium, which can also be found in Brazil nuts, fish, and beans.

Some people are discovering that probiotics (the friendly bacteria found in yogurt culture) may reduce the risk of catching a cold by 2.5 times, even if someone sneezes in your direction. Not all yogurts contain this ingredient that is said to prevent the cold virus from sticking to tissues and cause a cold. Stonyfield Yogurt has this type of bacteria in it, or a probiotic can be found at your local health food store.

Aside from what you eat, other good and natural preventives are:
*drink lots of water to stay hydrated
*wash your hands frequently
*get enough sleep
*manage your stress level
*get some form of physical activity every day.

Hopefully, these ideas will not only help you plan menus, but keep you and your family healthy throughout the holiday season.