Foods that ward off swine flu infection

February 27, 2015

Foods rich in vitamin D: According to a study conducted by Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences in association with the National Institute of Virology, the risk of swine flu can be reduced by adding adequate amounts of vitamin D-rich foods in your diet. A good dose of sunlight can cut down the risk of swine flu to a significant extent. Vitamin D helps in suppressing the inflammatory response to the H1N1 virus. Doctors also recommend that those who do not have access to the vaccines of the flu can take vitamin D tablets. Vitamin D reduces the risk of respiratory infections and can be an effective shield against influenza. Mushrooms are one of the richest vegetarian sources of vitamin D whereas salmon, sardines and egg yolk is some of the non-vegetarian sources. Doctors are also recommending a 20-minute exposure to the sun for three days a week along with diet supplements to prevent swine flu.

Immunity boosting foods: A strong immunity can also go a long way in preventing the virus from damaging your health. Consuming foods rich in vitamins A, B and C are vital for boosting your immunity. Your diet should also comprise foods rich in zinc and selenium. Consuming brown rice, sunflower seeds, meat and crustaceans can also help you build a strong immune system. Foods like garlic and ginger are rich in antioxidants and help to flush out toxins from the body. Here are ways you can improve your immunity to prevent swine flu.

Probiotics: Including probiotics in your diet like milk and yogurt is also necessary. Probiotics help build good bacteria in the gut which aid digestion. They are also known to improve your immunity by creating an acidic environment, which prevents the growth of other harmful bacteria in the stomach.

Foods to avoid

Swine flu is transmitted by airborne droplets from an infected person’s sneeze or cough, or from germs from hand and germ-laden surfaces. It is not a food-borne illness and cannot be transmitted by food. However, care should be taken that you eat healthy and thoroughly cooked food so that the foods you eat do not affect your immunity in any way. Also, read can eating chicken cause swine flu?

What to eat if you have swine flu?

Foods to eat

Make sure you sip enough water and juices to combat the flu. Proper hydration is an important part of swine flu treatment particularly because the flu causes dehydration leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea in some people.

If you are down with the flu, eat more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains as these foods are packed with phytochemicals that can boost your health. These foods can also provide you with antibodies and minerals like zinc and potassium that can help you fight the viral infection. Dr Vineet Aurora, Sr Consultant- Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi says, ‘If you are suffering from the flu, it is crucial that you eat fruits, vegetables and protein-rich foods to build your immunity to fight the disease.’ He also advises eating home cooked flu when you have caught the flu.

Foods to avoid

Dr Vineet Aurora also suggests avoiding foods from outside or street foods while you are down with the flu.

Also, avoid sugary foods and drinks as too much sugar can cause diarrhoea and make you sick.

Make do not consume canned foods or processed foods in any form while you are suffering from the flu.

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