STLMoms: Foods To Eat To Avoid The Flu

Did you know you could literally take a bite out of the flu by boosting your immunity with the foods you eat? If you are looking for a little extra protection to fight the flu this season, Dr. Gaythri Raman talked more about all the foods that are worth stocking up on.

*The Following foods boost immunity: Garlic, oysters, peanuts, hard cheeses

*Quercetin produce is believed to aid in disease prevention and cancel out the negative effects of stressful exercise in lab studies. Some foods include apples, onions, broccoli and tomatoes.


*Chicken Soup reduces mucus and facilitates coughing it up. It is proven more effective than hot water. To get the anti-inflammatory and other health benefits-make chicken soup with vegetables rather than store bought soup.

*Green Tea is high in "anti-viral activity against influenza.

*Vitamin D rich in salmon, light tuna, sardines, milk and cereal. Vitamin D is believed to cause the production of antimicrobial substances. Some foods include milk, Total, Raisin Bran & Whole Grain Total.

Yogurt – Probiotics friendly bacteria can reduce cold and flu symptoms. Probiotics reduces the duration of fever, cough and runny nose in kids ages 3-5.

Chiles - spicy peppers great source of vitamin C which has been tested in influenza A and reduces the incidences of pneumonia with flu. Chiles have anti viral properties that stimulate antibody production. Foods include: sweet red bell peppers, kiwi, oranges, green bell peppers, strawberries, brussel sprouts, cantaloupe and papaya