8 Flu-Fighting Foods
Salmon

People with the lowest levels of vitamin D were about 40 percent more likely to report having a recent cold or flu, according to a study from University of Colorado Denver Medical School, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. We don't know for sure if low blood levels of vitamin D are part of the reason the subjects got sick. However, it's smart to get enough of this vitamin anyway, since research shows it's crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Some easy sources of vitamin D include salmon, swordfish, tuna, fortified orange juice, fortified milk and natural sunlight.
Rachel Meltzer Warren is a New York City–based nutrition writer, educator and counselor.
Reviewed by Elaine Brown, MD on October 27, 2013
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