It’s that time of year again...flu season is upon us! To help you stay healthy, we’ve compiled a list of immune-boosting foods and drinks—including vitamin-rich fruits, hearty soups, and herbal teas that may boost your overall health or help you recover faster—to help seniors battle flu season. At Presidio Home Care, we’re here to support you with personalized care and wellness guidance this flu season. Whether you need assistance with meal prep, grocery shopping, or everyday activities around the home, our team is ready to help you stay strong and healthy.
Helpful Hydration
Hydration is essential for overall health, especially during flu season, when fever, sweating, and loss of appetite can lead to dehydration. While eating or drinking might feel like a chore when you’re unwell, staying hydrated can greatly support your recovery. Water is always the best option for hydration and natural detoxification, but if you’re looking for added flavor and replenishing electrolytes, here are a few other great options to consider:
Tea. Warm, soothing, and packed with antioxidants, tea can help alleviate flu symptoms. Whether you prefer green, ginger, or herbal tea, it’s a delicious way to stay hydrated. Offering calming, antiviral, and antioxidant properties, as well as benefits for digestion and blood sugar control, tea is a comforting and healthful choice. By staying hydrated, you can support your body's natural defenses and promote a faster recovery.
Broth. This might sound like a peculiar selection, but by sipping on broth, you not only get more liquid into your system, but also sooth a sore throat and relieve congestion. If you opt for bone broth, you’ll find a stock rich in nutrients such as iron, selenium, copper, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and essential amino acids Argentine, lysine, glutamine and proline. These are all critical to digestion, cognitive function, and detoxification — a key factor in alleviating cold symptoms.
100% juices (no added sugar). When you're feeling under the weather and can't stomach solid food, 100% fruit and vegetable juices can provide essential nutrients. Just remember, whole fruits and vegetables are always the best option. In a pinch, a low-sugar sports drink or electrolyte-packed drink could also help.
Power Up with Nutrient-Rich Greens
Even when you’re not feeling your best, it's important to nourish your body with nutrient-rich foods. Incorporate leafy greens like spinach, kale, and cabbage into your meals. These powerhouse vegetables are packed with vitamin C, iron and more that can help boost your immune system, decrease inflammation and aid in recovery. Try adding them to soups, stews, or smoothies for a convenient and healthy meal.
Sweet Sweet Potatoes
Beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables, supports respiratory health by boosting immune cell production. This is especially beneficial for older adults. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene. To maximize their nutritional benefits, opt for roasted sweet potatoes with olive oil instead of loaded with butter and sugar.
Totally Bananas
Bananas are an excellent choice for a gentle, nutritious snack. Their soft texture and soluble fiber make them soothing for upset stomachs, while providing essential nutrients and quick-acting carbohydrates. They’re also rich in potassium, a vital electrolyte your body needs to stay balanced.
Crazy for Garlic
Garlic, a culinary staple with a pungent flavor, is also a potent ally in the battle against illness. Renowned for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, garlic can help bolster your immune system and ward off infections.
The active compound in garlic, allicin, has been extensively studied for its immune-boosting effects. Allicin can enhance the function of immune cells, making it a valuable tool in combating colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. To reap the benefits of garlic, consider incorporating it into your daily diet. Whether it's minced, crushed, or in supplement form, garlic can add flavor and health benefits to your meals.
Consistent Care, Always
From flu season to summer days, Presidio Home Care Aides are here to support your health and wellbeing. Our dedicated team offers personalized care, including assistance with meal planning, medication reminders and more. Contact us today to learn how we can help you or your senior loved one thrive.
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