Cold temperatures can be very pleasant and provide a much-needed respite from the sweltering heat. However, it can also mean bouts of cold or flu. So, what can we do to combat cold and flu?

While there is no cure for colds, people often resort to taking high doses of vitamin C to limit the duration of the cold. While frequent hand washing, regular exercise and the right dose of flu shot are time-tested methods to fend off sickness, intake of certain foods help boost your immunity system against cold and flu.

“The most authentic way to fight a cold or flu is to eat foods that will help you build the healthy cells you need to feel better,” says Anita Mirchandani, MS, RD, CDN and spokesperson for the New York State Dietetic Association.

In an article, Home Remedies for Common Cold, published in Top10HomeRemedies, some common symptoms of cold include – a headache, runny nose, cough, high fever and an itchy throat. It is essential that a cold should be treated at the onset before it leads to other infections such as strep throat, bronchitis and pneumonia.

DailyBurn says there are certain foods that can help when one has cold or flu:

• Garlic: It is well known for its ability to boost immunity. Allicin, a major component found in garlic, has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.

• Sweet potato: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, which plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the mucosal surfaces.

• Turmeric: It is high in antioxidants and makes you less susceptible to colds, coughs and congestion.

• Chicken soup: One of the effective cures for cold is chicken soup. The warm liquid ensures you remains hydrated and soothes the throat.

Know more about foods that help fight cold by flipping through the pages of this ClipBook.