Superfoods to Fight a Cold

Superfoods to fight a cold include low-fat meats, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Water is an important component of the anti-cold defense system, and yogurt with live cultures can help prevent colds. Garlic contains allicin, an antibiotic that has been shown to prevent cold complications, and apples, oranges, and green bell peppers are all good sources of vitamin C and flavonoids. Lean ground beef can help to maintain cell health and fight off illness, and when combined with a bit of tomato, it's an excellent cold-weather food.

Healthy, nutrient-dense foods not only nourish your body and help cells grow and reproduce, but they also help arm your body's defenses against germs that cause colds. Low-fat meats, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains all help your body prepare for battle.

Water is another important component of your anti-cold defense system. When your body is dehydrated, germs have an easier time latching on and not letting go. Drink plenty of water and decaffeinated beverages to keep your body hydrated and ready.

One cup of yogurt per day may help keep the gastrointestinal tract healthy, which can help prevent colds. It must be yogurt with live cultures, as this is the key ingredient that keeps the GI tract in good working order. In addition, recent studies suggest that eating yogurt on a regular basis can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Garlic contains allicin, an antibiotic that has been shown in some studies to prevent cold complications. Garlic can be added to many of your favorite dishes to add flavor and help you prepare to fight cold germs.

An apple a day, they say, keeps the doctor away. An orange, on the other hand, can. One orange per day provides your daily vitamin C requirement. Oranges are also high in flavonoids, which aid in cell regeneration and overall health and strength. Green bell peppers are the vegetable family's best source of vitamin C. Simply slice one up and eat it raw, or add it to a salad. Peppers contain flavonoids as well. You could even make a green pepper dip seasoned with garlic for added germ-fighting power.

Lean ground beef, especially when cooked with garlic, can help to maintain cell health and fight off illness. It's high in protein, selenium, and zinc, and when combined with a bit of tomato, it's an excellent cold-weather food.