With the arrival of the winter season, the temperature begins to dip and the cases of cold and flu increase. The air becomes damp during the winter season and this dampened air absorbs pollutants more than dry air. When people inhale such polluted air, they suffer from all sorts of respiratory problems such as sneezing, coughing, running nose, throat irritation, wheezing, and nasal congestion, and so on.  

Whilst there are different types of effective medicines and tonics available to counter cold and flu, those medicines and tonics have multiple side effects as well. Most medicines for cold and flu are sedative as well, therefore, it is better to avoid medicines and opt for natural ways to get rid of cold and flu, or you can say, ‘avoid going to the doctors’ clinics’. There are five foods that if eaten on a daily basis in the right quantity can raise the immunity in people to fight against the virus that causes cold and flu. These are as follows: 

Garlic
Garlic is packed with a powerful chemical ‘allicin’. Garlic also releases a powerful antioxidant named sulfenic acid, which after getting decomposed helps people ward off illness. You can have garlic in the form of garlic bread or garlic butter.  

Carrots
Carrots are rich in a number of nutrients, which will help shoo away cold and flu. Vegetables that are rich in beta-carotene, a compound that helps boost the white blood cells in the body are excellent for those who suffer from illness during winters.  

Yogurt
Yogurt has an abundance of good bacteria, which helps increase the antibodies in the immune system, which enable the body to fight off illness. If you are not fond of the traditional cups of yogurt, then you can have those flavored yogurt packs.  

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
People should buy seasonal vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and folate. Including vegetables and fruits in daily diet will ward off cold and flu during the entire winter season.  

Spinach
Popeye eats spinach for a reason. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, lutein, folic acid, and folate, so eating spinach thrice or more in a week will enhance your immunity and protect you against the virus that causes cold and flu. 

 Author Bio: Monica Henin is the author of this blog post. She is an expert in the field of food tips and healthy recipes. Check out more about her at Addonkitchen.com.