3 Natural Foods for Fighting the Flu
By Genevieve Cunningham
It's that time of year again … it's flu time. No one looks forward to the day the first case of the flu is diagnosed. Most of us are simply hoping that it's not us or someone we love. The flu is miserable! Unfortunately, there's little we can do to avoid it. We can get the flu shot, but even that isn't guaranteed to protect us. All we can do is strengthen the body and prepare. But what does this look like? If you're interested in fighting off and keeping away the flu this year, take a look at these three natural foods to help you out.
Elderberry
Elderberry is a powerful antiviral berry. When it’s made into a tablet or syrup, it can help prevent the flu. Or if you currently have the flu, it can shorten the duration. This food has been used for years, likely long before modern medicine. So where can you find it? Unless you happen to have an elderberry bush in your yard and are skilled at making it into syrup, you’ll probably want to hit up your local health food store. They may have dissolvable tablets for older patients or a tasty syrup for little ones. Either can bring the benefits to your health. Stock up now, and use it according to the directions through the fall and winter.
Garlic
Garlic is a great food to keep in your cabinet. It’s a natural antibiotic and antifungal. You can eat it raw (if you can stand it!), add it into your favorite dishes, or even take it in tablet form. Just be aware that taking large amounts of garlic can make you smell. In smaller doses, you can gain the immune boosting benefits without the smell so that you can stay healthier all year long.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is a type of broth literally made by soaking the meat and bone of your preferred animal (chicken and beef are most common), and then using the excess liquid. Bone broth has many benefits to health and wellness. It’s thought to help with congestion, healthy skin, and as an immune booster. And with the chilly weather of the fall, it’s a great time to add it into your menu. Look for some tasty recipes for making bone broth into a tasty soup and you’ll have an easy dish that can help keep you well.
Catching the flu is miserable! It’s definitely something that we would all like to avoid. Use these tips to help keep the flu away from your home and family. A little prevention can go a long way, so stock up on preventative techniques, and keep your health intact all season long.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Clemente, Calif.
