Flu also known as influenza is a contagious respiratory infection caused by a number of viruses that pass through the air and enter your body through your nose or mouth. According to MedlinePlus, as of 2010, approximately 5 percent to 20 percent of Americans get the flu each year. Symptoms generally consist of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache and fatigue. Treatment usually consists of a healthy diet, painkillers, anti-viral medication, rest and time. Certain foods can strengthen your immune system and help you get rid of the flu faster.
Fruits And Vegetables
Get rid of the flu faster by consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables. Many fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamin C, which is a water-soluble antioxidant that can strengthen your immune system so that it can fight off damaging free radicals. Vitamin C also helps your body heal from viral infections like the flu. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C include carrots, cabbage, oranges, blackberries, cranberries, cherries, bell peppers, kiwi, guava, limes, strawberries, tomatoes, papaya, broccoli, kale, chard, spinach and broccoli.
Yogurt
If you are suffering from the flu, try adding yogurt into your daily diet because it can help you beat the flu. Yogurt is loaded with live acidophilus cultures, bacteria that can strengthen your immune system and help restore the healthy bacteria in your digestive system that have been reduced from antibiotic use.
Ginger
Consuming ginger may help you quickly get rid of the flu. Ginger, a potent herb, contains anti-inflammatory properties that can calm your digestive tract, alleviate headaches and ease muscle aches. This spice can be found in a variety of teas, gingerbread, ginger snaps and ginger ale.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Eating a bowl of warm chicken noodle soup can help you beat the flu at an accelerated pace. Chicken noodle soup has anti-inflammatory properties that can decrease inflammation in your body, reduce flu symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat and sneezing ,and relieve congestion by loosening mucus in your upper respiratory system. It can also protect you against dehydration by keeping your body hydrated. Other warm liquids that can be beneficial for the flu include teas, water and broths. It is important that you receive enough liquids that your urine is clear or very pale yellow.
Garlic
Adding garlic to your meals can help you quickly heal from the flu. Garlic contains antibiotic and anti-viral properties that can protect you against a variety of viruses and infections. It also contains a healthy amount of disease-fighting antioxidants and allicin, an active chemical compound in garlic that can loosen mucus and fight viral infections, including the flu.
Protein
Adding protein-based foods into your daily diet can help you heal from the flu at a rapid pace. Protein strengthens your immune system by helping your body produce the white blood cells needed to fight off infections. Protein-based foods include lean red meat, fish, skinless and boneless poultry, eggs, lentils, beans and soy products.
References
- MedlinePlus: Flu
- "Virology Journal"; On the Epidemiology of Influenza; John J. Cannell, Michael Zasloff, Cedric F. Garland, Robert Scragg and Edward Giovannucci; March 2008
- "Secret Agents: The Menace of Emerging Infections"; Madeline Drexler; 2008
- "Urologic Nursing"; Conventional and Alternative Medical Advice for Cold and Flu Prevention: What Should Be Recommended and What Should Be Avoided?; Mark A. Moyad; December 2009
- "Alternative Medicine Review"; Colds and Influenza: A Review of Diagnosis and Conventional, Botanical, and Nutritional Considerations; Mario Roxas and Julie Jurenka; March 2007
- "Ayurveda Encyclopedia: Natural Secrets to Healing, Prevention and Longevity"; Swami Sadashiva Tirtha; 2010
Member Comments