The flu, short for influenza, occurs when a virus infects your respiratory system, including the nose, throat and lungs. Flu symptoms tend to occur suddenly and are contagious. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, sore throat, cough, dry mouth and appetite loss. Consuming certain vitamins may be helpful in treating, relieving and coping with flu symptoms.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C may be helpful in relieving your flu symptoms. This vitamin acts as an antioxidant in your body that protects you from free radical damage. Free radicals are viruses and bacteria that can cause cellular damage, infection and illness in your body. By consuming vitamin C, you may boost your immune system strength and be able to combat these harmful substances. In addition to a supplement, you can find this vitamin in many foods such as oranges, limes, lemons, strawberries and broccoli.
Vitamin A
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that you increase your intake of vitamin A in order to improve flu symptoms. This vitamin also acts as an antioxidant in your body and provides you with increased immune strength to fight off infection and illness. You can obtain this food in a supplement; however, many foods also include this vitamin. Animal sources include cheese, milk, eggs, meat and poultry. Good plant sources of vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, pumpkin and squash.
Vitamin D
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, some people use vitamin D to treat flu symptoms. Vitamin D can be obtained naturally from the sun, in supplements and in some foods, such as sardines, herring and salmon. Dairy products and whole grain breads and cereals may also be fortified with vitamin D. MedlinePlus says that vitamin D has been used to boost the immune system. This may increase your ability to combat viruses and bacteria that can infect your body.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E may also play a helpful role in treating your flu symptoms. This vitamin is an antioxidant and therefore can strengthen your immune system. A strong immunity can help you combat the current virus you have and prevent further infections. You can obtain this vitamin in a supplement; however, it can also be found in many natural food sources. Good choices include olive oil, almonds, nut butters, spinach and avocado.
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