The common flu is something that happens to everyone, especially in season changes. But sometime this common flu and cold becomes viral and then it starts to cause trouble as the sniffles you felt earlier on have now morphed into a full-blown attack. There’s no cure as such for the common cold. You have to wait it out. Certain nutritional tips though, could work in the betterment of your health and speed up the healing.
The ultimate disease fighter, protein is what you need to fight both the disease and its wear-and-tear. While you are nursing your flu and even beyond, remember to consume lean protein like eggs (egg whites), fish, white meats like chicken and turkey and dals. But eat smartly as the recommended ‘dosage’ is one gram for every kilo of body weight. In other words, if you weigh in about 68 kilos, you need to have about 68-70 gm of protein a day.
Vitamin C helps boost immunity. It’s beautiful free radical that helps eliminate bad stuff from your body. Amla and kiwi are best sources of vitamin C.
Vitamin B12 is a catalyst for recovery and helps build immunity as well. However, B12 can only be found in animal foods (including dairy and eggs). If you are a vegetarian, take a doctor-approved B12 supplement.
Zinc is also a great immunity booster. To get it, opt for poultry, nut, whole grains, beans, dairy products and certain breakfast cereals.
Probiotic yogurts contain probiotics that keep your intestines happy. You can find probiotics in drinkable yogurt options like packaged chaas, those small probiotic yogurt drinks and OTC supplements.
If you find it hard to exactly isolate foods that have the above nutrients, explore the multivitamin option. But get it prescribed by your doctor. Supplements are not to be overdosed upon.
