Staph infections, caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, can be potentially very dangerous. Everyone has staph bacteria in their body, but not everyone develops an infection from the organism. A cut or sore can lead to a reddened area of skin--and the threat of infection if staph bacteria enter the bloodstream. Eating well can help you fight off staph infections and strengthen your immunity.
Step 1
Drink cranberry juice to fight staph infections. Worcester Polytechnic Institute studied the effects of cranberry juice on various forms of infection and found that the beverage prevented staph-causing bacteria from forming biofilms, the gathering of bacteria that attaches to a host to create an infection. The study did not specify how much cranberry juice is required to prevent staph infections; consult your doctor to determine how much of the juice you should drink to receive its preventive benefits.
Step 2
Cook with garlic to prevent staph infections and to strengthen your immunity overall. Garlic possesses natural antiseptic and antibacterial qualities. A 1996 issue of "Better Nutrition" reports that garlic can effectively kill the bacteria that lead to staph infections. Consider taking a garlic supplement, under the supervision of your primary care doctor, if you do not enjoy the flavor of the herb in your food.
Step 3
Eat foods that contain vitamin E to fight many kinds of infection, including staph. A study reported in a 1996 issue of "Nutrition and Health" explains that vitamin E, an antioxidant, can protect your body from infection and boost your immune system. Peanuts, spinach, carrots, olive and safflower oils, and avocado are dietary sources of vitamin E.
Step 4
Include a wide range of nutrients in your diet overall to fight off staph and other infections, and to keep your immune system working as it should. The World's Healthiest Foods website says many different vitamins and minerals can prevent you from getting sick, especially those with an antioxidant effect. Balance healthy, lean proteins with foods rich in vitamin A--milk, butter, eggs, spinach and cantaloupe are some examples--fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. B vitamins found in leafy green vegetables may also help you fight off infections such as staph.
Things You'll Need
- Cranberry juice
- Garlic supplements
References
- "Better Nutrition"; "Garlic: Strengthens Our Immunity, Improves Infection-Fighting Ability"; Victoria Dolby; June 1996
- Free Republic: Cranberry Juice Shows Promise Blocking Staph Infection
- Science Daily: How Cranberry Juice Fights Bacteria at the Molecular Level
- "Nutrition and Health"; "Nutrition and Immunity With Emphasis on Infection and Autoimmune Disease"; L. Harbige; 1996.
- World's Healthiest Foods: What Foods are Good For My Immune System?
