You feel the telltale tingling in the back of the throat ... your head hurts ... and you can not breathe. It's official: You've found something.
This is the discomfort season. Each year, adults have an average of two to three colds a year and approximately 5 to 20 percent of Americans come down with the flu, usually between the months of October and March.
Before you reach the last counter remedy in your medicine cabinet, head to your kitchen. While frequent hand washing, regular exercise and the flu vaccine are proven methods to prevent disease, it can also strengthen your immune system with the objects that are right in your pantry.
4 foods that will enchant your immune system
1. garlic
No, it is not the smell of garlic that scares bacteria and viruses that cause disease. According to Alisa Ramsey, RD, CD, CNS, CSC and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is Alicia, the main active component of garlic responsible for its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.
Research studies have shown that people taking garlic supplements experienced fewer colds and less severe compared to those given a placebo. "Garlic also helps promote healthy gut flora, which rid the body of toxins, bacteria and viruses," says Merchantman. While you can pop a pill, Ramsey said it's better to eat the real thing. "The active components are more inviolable when you eat the real garlic." Try to beat the roasted garlic Palo Pesto the next time you feel a coming cold.
2. Meat
If you want to improve your immune system, eat beef. "Meat is a good source of zinc, and zinc is important in the development of white blood cells that defend the body," Ramsey said. Research has shown that zinc deficiency decreases a person's immune function and response. On the other hand, the extra protein you get from time to time eating beef is compatible with the body in building antibodies to fight the infection, according to Merchantman. This meat in the recipe chinch 25 grams of protein per serving; Add it to your dinner menu this week.
3. Turmeric
One of the most recent spices to be crowned as a super food, turmeric is an intense yellow powder often used in curry dishes. It is rich in antioxidants and is considered a natural anti-inflammatory. "If taken daily, it is known to relieve the body of toxins," says Merchantman. "It has been shown that people who eat turmeric are less sensitive to cold, cough and congestion." Order your favorite Indian curry restaurant or mix this fresh turmeric tonic for quick immunity.
His mother was right. You should eat chicken soup when you are sick. This elixir of aging combines many elements that help to accelerate its recovery. Hot broth not only relieves throat, but helps you stay hydrated, too. "Hot liquid, like soup, raises the temperature of your body and respiratory system, loosening mucus secretions," Ramsey said. "Also, when cooking the chicken, it releases the amino acid cytosine, which is like a drug that is used to treat bronchitis." Merchantman said, "When you are sick, I believe in soup. With its high concentration of protein and vegetables, it's like giving your body a super vitamin." The chicken soup in a slow cooker will allow you to relax in bed while your meal.
Although these pantry foods are a good first line of defense against colds and the flu, you should also pay attention to your overall diet.
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