How ’bout Them Apples?
Your number one goal this winter? Don’t catch the flu. With the cold Chicago weather on the horizon, its no wonder you’re concerned.
But there is hope for your health this year. RealAge.com released a new study that examined animals whose immune systems were lowered due to physical stress. However, when the animals were given quercetin, a type of flavanoid, their immune systems were boosted back up to normal levels.
While the results are not yet confirmed in humans, researchers seem confident that by eating certain foods, we might all be able to keep our immune systems strong as the flu season approaches. Types of food that are high in quercetin are apples, broccoli and red onions. These foods also happen to have many other healthy nutrients such as fiber and vitamins A, B and C.
However, the researchers say not to skip out on getting the flu shot in lieu of eating more of these foods. It can’t hurt to be extra cautious!
