Helpful food advice to battle colds and flu

The highly contagious colds and flus have no cure but there are foods that can help fend off the viruses or at least help you get back on your feet quickly when you do get it.

Colds and influenza are caused by different types of viruses. The viruses can be spread through the air and through contact with things such as telephones and doorknobs. Certain factors can predispose one to contracting either infection, including being rundown, having an illness, experiencing prolongued stress and being exposed to cigarette smoke, smog and other environmental pollutants as well as inadequate or infrequent hand-washing.

For both illnesses, drinking plenty of fluids, getting lots of rest and eating nutritious foods are important keys to hastening recovery. Here are some other foods to put in your pantry for their cold-fighting ability.

• Rosemary, sage, thyme and artichokes contain luteolin, a flavonoid which may act as a natural antihistamine by interfering with the release of histamine, a chemical pinpointed as one of the causes of congestion and other respiratory symptoms.
• Garlic: Studies show that the flavonoid quercetin in garlic is linked to optimal lung health. Folk medicine advocates the use of garlic to help prevent common respiratory infections, though there is currently little evidence to support this notion.
• Vitamin C and Zinc: The immune-bolstering properties of vitamin C and zinc may help your body combat both colds and flu. Vitamin C may also function as a natural antihistamine.
• Foods rich in selenium: Lacking this antioxidant mineral may prolong symptoms of the flu, including duration of the illness and lung inflammation.
• A bowl of chicken soup can offer some temporary comfort if you have already caught a cold. Scientists speculate that soup may reduce inflammation in the lungs, a common symptom of many respiratory ailments. It may be that chicken soup helps to slow down the activity of neutrophils, white blood cells that can create an accumulation of mucus in the lungs, causing congestion. Also, inhaling the soothing steam from the soup can help to temporarily open up nasal passages.
• Fiery chili peppers, ginger, horseradish and mustard may offer immediate relief from nasal congestion.

So to stay healthy make sure you eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Pair it with beef, cashews, or chicken for the healthiest meals to prevent cold and flu.