KOMPAS.com – Flu season is back during the year-end holidays with lots of rain. Quite a lot of people catch the flu whose symptoms include a runny nose, fever and cough.
However, is it true that certain foods or supplements can help improve the immune system and keep the body healthy?
Here are some tips for keeping your immune system strong, so you can avoid getting sick with the flu:
Also read: Mushroom Shrimp Soup Recipe, Warm Side Dish for Those Who Have the Flu
Focus on a balanced diet
Don’t skip meals so that your body always has enough energy. Try to consume five to nine servings of vegetables and fruit every day to meet your needs for vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support the immune system.
A serving of fruit can be one medium fresh fruit, one cup of berries or melon, or half a cup of canned fruit in its own juice. Meanwhile, one serving of vegetables is half a cup of cooked vegetables or one cup of raw vegetables.
Getting nutrition from food is better than from supplements. If you want to try certain herbal medicines or supplements to fight the flu, consult a medical professional first.
Don’t forget to drink fluids. Drink enough water throughout the day, because plain water is the best choice.
Nutrition to prevent flu
The following nutrients play an important role in immune system health:
Beta Carotene
Sources: Sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, mangoes, broccoli and tomatoes
Vitamin C
Sources: Citrus fruits, berries, melons, tomatoes, peppers, and broccoli
Vitamin D
Sources: Fatty fish, eggs, milk, and vitamin D-fortified juices
Also read: Foods and Drinks to Avoid When You Have the Flu
Zinc
