THE FLU FIGHTERS
(All information is taken from the Life Info magazine)
Someone reminded me that the 'British Autumn/Winter' season has started. Yet I am sure we all know people who have had flu's and colds recently because of the unsettled weather. By building up your resistance, your body will be better prepared to defend itself when the unexpected bugs arrive. Onlive personal trainer Andrew Cate looks at five practical steps you can take to help win the fight against colds and flus.
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Step 1: Feast on flu-fighting foods
An overall healthy diet will help you to boost your immune system, but these foods help deliver a knockout punch.
Blueberries: -Packed with vitamin C, E and disease-fighting antioxidants.
Broccoli: -Broccoli is a good source of vitamins A, C and folate, and is also rich in phytochemicals (plant compounds that have protective properties)
Oats: -High in soluble fibre, which absorbs cholesterol and helps establish a healthy environment in your digestive system.
Spinach: -High in iron and antioxidants.
Green tea: -Rich in antioxidants which prevent cell damage from oxidation. It also promotes the secretion of interferon, which has virus-fighting properties.
Garlic: -Stimulates the multiplication of infection-fighting white blood cells and also contains the phytochemical allicin which has antibacterial properties.
Coldwater fish: -The omega 3 essential fatty oils in coldwater fish (salmon, tuna) create high blood levels of flu-fighting T-cells and interferon.
Soya products: -Contain protein and a wide variety of nutrients. Soya products are also rich in isoflavanoids, which help to balance your hormone and cholesterol levels.
Pumpkin: -High in carotenoids and B group vitamins.
Water: -Drink 6-8 glasses a day to stay well hydrated, which keeps the susceptible mucus membranes in your upper respiratory tract moist and resistant to infection.
