Some of the most beneficial foods for boosting immunity are:
- Reishi and shiitake Mushrooms. They have a unique ability to activate the body’s natural killer (NK) cells, which attack virus-infected cells. The safest preparation of the mushrooms is always cooked.
- Kiwi is a potent vitamin C rich food. It contains more vitamin C per volume than citrus fruits.
- Garlic – This herb has antiviral, antibiotic, and antifungal properties. It also boosts the immune system. It can be eaten raw, cooked in food, or taken in pill form which is much more concentrated of a dose.
- Green Tea
- Warm broths can be soothing and break up respiratory secretions.
You may want to opt for supplemental support beyond nutrition for extra prevention throughout this season. I recommend the following:
- Elderberry- Also known as Sambucus can be used daily during the flu season to act as a preventative measure, or it can be used acutely as the first symptoms of illness begin to take place. Elderberry is an immune tonic, which also decreases inflammation and shields viruses from infecting healthy cells. It’s one of the few products I suggest that families keep on hand in their medicine cabinet because it is safe and effective for both children and their parents. Also, with elderberry, you have many forms to choose from and they are all very tasty, so there is a good chance to please the entire family. Forms: liquid, powder, gummies. Children tend to love the gummies but just a note of caution, gummies sometimes come with sugar which is not good for flu or cold prevention. Opt for the lower sugar options. Berry Well Immune by Vital Nutrients is one of my favorite kid friendly antiviral products. This is a Children’s product in a powdered form of elderberry. The taste is a very pleasant light berry flavor and children can drink it diluted in water or even made into popsicles.
- Optimize Vitamin D levels. People with low vitamin D levels are 40% more susceptible to the flu and other respiratory infections. Vitamin D can come from the sun, but can also be easily taken as a supplement or through food like egg yolk, cheese, milk, and beef liver. Vitamin D levels can be checked with a simple blood test at your doctor’s office.
- Echinacea -This herb has antiviral properties and will help to reduce the symptoms of the flu or other illness. This herb can be sipped as tea as well as taken in a liquid or capsule form.
- Colloidal Silver – When used properly, this preventive treatment can act as an antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral.
- Homeopathic oral flu formula: Homeopathics are a nondrowsy medicine, that is safe and natural to help treat the unwanted symptoms of the flu.
