by S.A. Lake

Created on: September 05, 2009   Last Updated: September 09, 2009

FEED YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

With the cold and flu season just around the corner it's time to start thinking about what you eat and how it may help to prevent or treat the symptoms of the common cold. Many times a hectic daily routine of high-fat, high-sugar junk foods, skipped meals and lots of caffeine lead to a depleted immune system that makes a person more susceptible to catching a cold. Begin the cold virus battle by eating a variety of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat proteins to keep your immune system running at peak performance.

If and when a cold strikes, there are some foods that may help relieve the symptoms and help to shorten the duration of the illness. Many of these home remedies have been around for generations, since the days before over the counter medications were readily available, however medical science shows that there is truth in many of these "old stand by" suggestions.

WATER WATER WATER

Staying hydrated during a cold is vitally important to a speedy recovery. Instead of coffee or soda, switch to teas or sip on hot water with a slice of lemon.

HERBAL TEAS

Herbal teas are another way to stay hydrated and also offer an alternative to over the counter medications by providing medicinal qualities. As and added bonus, many of these herbs are already stocked on the spice rack and are readily available when a cold strikes.

Sage

Sage can be made into a tea that will ease all cold symptoms as well as soothe a sore throat. Simply boil four cups of water, add ounce of fresh sage leaves, the juice of one lemon and sweeten with honey.

Fennel

Fennel is a licorice flavored seed that can be brewed into a tasty tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of seeds per cup of boiling water and strained to use as a gargle for relieving a sore throat. A cough remedy can also be made by adding 3 drops of fennel seed oil to 1 tablespoon of honey.

Ginger

Many people find fresh ginger root helps treat the coughing and fever that often accompany colds and flu. Try making a ginger tea: Pour a cup of boiling water over 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.

FRUIT JUICES

Consider drinking fruit juices, especially those containing high levels of vitamin C, to strengthen the immune system. Getting an increased amount of vitamin C is especially important if you smoke, as smoking increases both your risk of catching a cold and your body's need for this protective vitamin.

FOOD FOR FIGHTING COLDS

Sorry Grandma, but chicken

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