Hi there, today I want to talk about 5 foods to eat that may help prevent a cold from happening.
- There’s something about Garlic that cold and flu viruses don’t like — and it’s not just the pungent aroma! Garlic’s been used for centuries as an effective antibacterial and antiviral compound. plus it produces antioxidants as it decomposes. Garlic packs the biggest antioxidant punch when it’s eaten raw. Try adding raw garlic to soups and broths to add not only a little flavor, but ward off cold and flu too.
- Ginger’s anti-nausea effects are well known to most people. However, ginger has also demonstrated antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Plus its potent anti-inflammatory properties can help boost your immunity. Try adding fresh ginger to soups or brew up a cup of ginger tea or even ginger ale — just make sure it’s real ginger or ginger extract — plain old ginger flavorings don’t have the same benefit.
- Chicken soup has been used for centuries as a preventative treatment for the common cold and flu. As it turns out, there is evidence to back up its claims as one of the best natural remedies for colds and flu. Any hot liquid can help relieve nasal congestion, but chicken soup appears to be a superior alternative for moving mucous out of the body. It’s also high in zinc which has been proven to shorten the duration of a cold.
- Pumpkin seeds or Pepitas are a great source of cold fighting zinc. They’re also high in immune-boosting Vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. One ounce of pumpkin seeds — about 142 seeds –contains about 2 gm of zinc. Try adding pepitas to trail mix, salads, or sprinkling on top of yogurt for a little crunch.
- If you’re a fan of mushrooms like me, knowing these tasty fungi have health benefits is an awesome bonus. Shiitake mushrooms enhance your body’s natural killer cells whose job is to attack cancer and other virus-infected cells. Mushrooms are also high in immune-boosting Vitamin D.
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