Foods to help prevent the flu

BALTIMORE - By now you know to wash your hands often and to cover your cough to prevent spreading the flu.

But what role does your diet play?

Eating healthy foods not only keeps you from packing on the extra pounds, but it also boosts your immune system.

Check out our Flu Resource Guide

And that can make a big difference in how your body reacts during cold and flu season.  

We all know vitamin C is good for the body. It makes your immune system stronger.

But instead of popping vitamin c supplements, you should eat foods rich in vitamin C because they have more nutritional value.

For example, when you eat an orange or grapefruit, not only are you getting vitamin C, but you're also getting magnesium, potassium, and folate.

All those vitamins work together to do a better job of protecting your body against colds and flu. 

Try to get in 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day to keep your immune system strong.

And don't forget to balance out your diet with other healthy foods like fish, dairy, nuts, and whole grains.

An overall healthy body means a healthier immune system.