If you are starting to feel ill with cold and flu symptoms, it is important to start adding some nutrient-rich foods to your diet. According to the "Wall Street Journal," a diet high in vitamins D, E and C can help you ward off viruses by building up your natural immunity. Speak to your doctor about making dietary changes as well as receiving regular vaccinations to combat flu and cold season.
Tea with Honey
The combination of tea and honey is touted as a superfood combination to combat the flu and cold viruses, according to "Forbes" magazine website. Tea and honey contain antibacterial and antiviral polyphenols that can relieve a sore throat and clear up bacterial infections.
Garlic
Add garlic to your dishes if you want help fighting off your flu symptoms. Garlic contains allicin, a phytochemical that can kill bacteria in the body, according to a "Forbes" article.
Red Bell Peppers
Red bell peppers are high in vitamin C, a nutrient that decreases the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. Red bell peppers contain twice as much vitamin C as oranges, according to "Woman's Day" magazine. You can add them to salads, soups, stews and casseroles.
Nuts
Nuts, like almonds, cashews, and walnuts are high in vitamin E. Vitamin E works as an antioxidant and can help relieve flu symptoms, notes "Woman's Day."
Fortified Milk
Milk that has been fortified with vitamin D should be part of your flu-fighting diet. According to the "Wall Street Journal," vitamin D deficiencies are widespread. Besides fortified milk, there are fortified juices available, as well. Vitamin D provides the body with the proteins needed to fight off infections.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup contains healthy vegetables, like carrots and celery, which contain anti-inflammatory properties. The ingredients can relieve throat swelling and break up mucus. When served warm, it has the ability to raise the body temperature to fight infection, notes "Woman's Day."
