5 Foods To Keep A Cold Away

You can keep the common cold and other seasonal illnesses at bay by adding these five tasty foods to your diet today.

Honey

Add it to coffee, tea or even stir-fries for a touch of sweetness. But did you know that this ingredient is full of a special protein called defensin? “This protein actively breaks down bacteria and strengthens the body,” says Sheila Zhou, expert scientist at Usana.

Chicken soup

It sounds cliche but this comforting food does so much more than warm your body up. “Chicken soup is a beneficial meal that is full of fluids that keep you hydrated and prevent the more severe symptoms of a cold from developing,” continues Sheila.

salmo

Salmon

Eating salmon helps to keep hair healthy and shiny, all thanks to its fatty omega-3 goodness. “These oils have been found to reduce the production of prostaglandins 2-series, which are compounds in the body that can worsen inflammation,” says Sheila. “Salmon is also a major source of vitamin D, which promotes the activation of cells within the body that maintain the immune system.”

Dark chocolate

We’ll take any excuse to keep reaching for that block of dark chocolate hidden in our pantries. “Research has shown that Theobromine, a derivative of cocoa, reduces the intensity and length of coughing,” says Sheila.

Citrus fruits

There’s a reason why people recommend taking vitamin C tablets when you’re about to get sick, but why not get it from the source itself.? “All citrus fruits are important sources of vitamin C, which support a healthy immune system which means your body is able to eliminate the threat of a virus before it strikes.”

Main image courtesy of The Food of Vietnam by Luke Nguyen