Gotten your flu shot yet? If not, or even if you have, get a shot of Spigola Ristorante’s advice when it comes to using certain foods to fight the flu.
“While it is important to eat healthfully all year, it is especially so during the flu season,” said John Kuropatwa, executive chef at Spigola, located in Hamilton Township, N.J. “You need all the help you can get, to help avoid getting the flu. Many people do not realize they can help prevent illnesses by boosting their immune system.”
Here’s the list of food fighters the restaurant learned from The American Dietetic Association and the Centers for Disease Control:
* Yogurt — Probiotics contain live, active cultures. These healthy bacteria help keep your intestinal track free of germs.
* Mushrooms — Help increase the activity level of white blood cells, which helps to keep you healthier.
* Garlic — Helps fight bacteria and infection because of the allicin it contains, which is a powerful and protective compound.
* Red bell peppers — Help boost your immune system because they contain phytochemicals, vitamin C and beta carotene.
* Broccoli — Contains powerful antioxidants that help keep the body healthy.
* Tea — Has polyphenols and antioxidants that help provide protection.
* Turmeric — This powerful spice is a polyphenol that helps maintain health.
* Beef — Contains zinc, which helps boost the immune system; it can also be found in fortified breakfast cereals, crab, chickpeas, and cashews.
* Sweet potatoes — Contain vitamin A, which helps to regulate the immune system and fight off infection. Vitamin A can also be found in carrots, spinach, kale, and cantaloupe.
* Brazil nuts — Contain an abundance of selenium, which plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Other sources of selenium include noodles, oatmeal, and walnuts.
Or login with:
New Account