5 Ways to Boost Your Immunity During the Cold and Flu Season
Winter Immunity & Nutrition Series
Fight off colds and flu this season! Learn how good nutrition can help you boost your immune system and stay healthy this winter. Get all the information you need to get started today.
It's that time of year again - cold and flu season. With the ongoing COVID cases, strengthening your immune system is more important than ever. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to boost your immunity naturally, and one of the most effective ways is through nutrition. Eating a healthy, balanced diet full of immune-boosting foods can help protect yourself and stay healthy throughout the winter. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best ways to support your immune system with nutrition.
Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
I know you’ve heard it before, but please hear me out. Adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet is one of the easiest ways to boost your immunity. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support your immune system. Some of the best options for immune support include citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, leafy greens like kale and spinach, and berries like blueberries. Aim to have a variety of different fruits and vegetables in every meal to get the most benefit.
Incorporate Immune-Boosting Herbs and Spices
Certain herbs and spices have natural immune-boosting properties that can help keep you healthy. Some of the best options include ginger, turmeric, garlic, and oregano. These ingredients can be added to meals or drinks to give your immune system a little extra support. Try adding ginger to a cup of tea, roasting garlic with your vegetables, or using turmeric in a curry dish for a delicious and nutritious boost.
Choose Whole Grains and Healthy Fats
A balanced diet that includes plenty of whole grains and healthy fats can also help keep your immune system strong. Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, which help fuel your body and support your immune system. Healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and olive oil provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids supporting immune function.
Stay Hydrated with Water and Herbal Teas
Staying hydrated is vital for overall health and immune function. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help to keep your immune system functioning properly. Herbal teas like ginger and green tea can also be great for hydration and immune support. Try sipping hot tea throughout the day to stay hydrated and healthy.
Avoid Immunity-Weakening Foods
In addition to incorporating immune-boosting foods into your diet, limiting foods that can weaken your immune system is also important. Processed foods, sugary snacks, and alcohol can all have a negative impact on your immune function. Focus on whole, fresh foods and limit your intake of processed foods as much as possible.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating these immune-boosting foods into your diet and avoiding unhealthy options can help keep your immune system strong and fight off illness naturally. Of course, good nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to staying healthy during cold and flu season. It's also important to get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and practice good hygiene habits like washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask in public places. By taking these steps and prioritising good nutrition, you can help protect yourself and your family against winter illnesses.
Don’t hesitate to contact dietitian Normund Barons, RD, and see how he can help you achieve your wellness goals. Next time, we'll discuss which nutritional supplements can help boost your immunity.
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for information and educational purposes and is not intended to be personal dietary or medical advice. Consult a registered dietitian or other qualified healthcare professional if you have any questions. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read.
