Foods that boost the immune system

You do everything you can to make sure no one in your family gets the flu. You take your kids to get shots, you remind them to wash their hands often.

But there's one more thing you can do and it starts in the kitchen.

Certain foods can boost your immune system and help you avoid the flu.

"A healthy diet really is helping to support their immune system," says Jennifer Shea Rawn, a registered dietician for SHOPPERS.

She says foods that boost the immune system can go a long way during the flu season.

You can start by eating a colorful array of fruits and vegetables.

From leafy greens to bright red tomatoes, the more colors you add to your plate, the better.

Foods rich in vitamin A are a good place to start. Shea Rawn says, "Things like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, all your winter squashes, some of your favorite fall foods right now are perfect to include in an immune supporting diet."

And stock up on nuts. They're full of vitamin E.

"So your walnuts and your almonds, some vegetable oils so your extra virgin olive oil, your canola oil and other vegetable oils."

And don't forget about the mighty avocado. "So avocado really is a power packed nutrient dense food for you to include… It really is a wonderful thing to use as a replacement for things like mayonnaise, things like butter, you can on sandwich include that thinly sliced avocado on a sandwich to replace that mayo."

And how you hydrate your body plays an important role in boosting your immune system.

"Water should be the number one drink that kids and adults should be drinking throughout the day."