TOP 18 SUPER FOODS TO PREVENT/CURE COLDS:

TOP 18 SUPER FOODS TO PREVENT/CURE COLDS:

1. Ginger: Plenty of ginger and lemon hot water alleviates cold symptoms and clears nasal passages. Ginger is a good decongestant, immunity booster, natural antibiotic and its phytochemicals compound allicin, has antiviral properties. 

2. Turmeric: Over the centuries, turmeric has been used to treat bacterial and viral infection. Curcumin is the principal active ingredient of this spice. 

3. Raw honey: Is full of antibacterial and antiviral polyphenols that can help fight a bacterial infection or a sore throat.

4. Wheat Germ: Wheat germ, the nutrient source of the wheat grain, is full of essential vitamins and fats that give your immune system a boost. Vitamin E, an antioxidant helps fight inflammation.

5. Beets: Packed with antioxidants and magnesium- a mineral that assists with nerve and muscle function, beets stocks a lot of vital folate. 

6. Spirulina: An amazing green superfood, spirulina is derived from a microscopic freshwater plant. Rich source of protein, vital minerals such as Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Zinc, and Phosphorous and B-Vitamins. It’s also rich in several anti-oxidants, and the only source of the antioxidant phycocyanin.

7. Cottage Cheese: Contains selenium, a powerful antioxidant that can strengthen the immune system. 

8. Flax Seeds: Contains multiple nutrients and minerals, including vitamin E, an antioxidant that keeps cells healthy, and alpha-linolenic acid, a vegetarian source of omega-3 fatty acids. 

9. Lemons: In addition to vitamin C, lemons promote healthy bacteria, rather than the type that can cause viruses and colds. Use lemon in place of sugar and salt, both of which can weaken the immune system. 

10. Pumpkin Seeds: These are flush with vitamins, amino acids and minerals, including Zinc- an antioxidant that boosts the immune system and minimizing damage to cell membranes from free radicals. 

11. Kiwi: Abundant in vitamin C, potassium- a vital mineral for strong muscles and nerves, vitamin E- immune-booster, flavonoids and carotenoids - antioxidants that promote respiratory health, heart health and optimum well-being.

12. Papaya: Has excellent anti-inflammatory properties, high amount of vitamin C, beta-carotene- a phytonutrient that gets converted to vitamin A and keeps eyes, skin and mucous membranes moist. 

13. Blueberries: Excellent source of vitamin C, manganese, fiber and loads of antioxidants. It is a great immune booster protecting against common colds and flu.

14. Eggs: Contains Selenium, a powerful mineral that supports a healthy immune system. Eye whites provide high-value protein and yolks are relatively low in saturated fat. 

15. Tofu: Less protein leads to higher carb intake, increasing blood sugar levels and weakening the immune system. Tofu is a complete protein and a good source of calcium and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which strengthen the immune system.

16. Quinoa: One of the few "complete proteins" in plants, supplying all essential amino acids that animal meat and seafoods provide, such as lysine, which helps with tissue repair.

17. Grapefruit and Oranges: Citrus fruits are a superstore of vitamin C, powerful antioxidants and are low in calories. 

18. Fluids: Hydration is critical in fighting symptoms of colds and flu, thinning mucus, and easing some of that congestion. Warm liquid can soothe a sore throat and further ease congestion, and tea is also rich in infection-fighting antioxidants. Avoid fruit juices with added sugar.