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Health & Wellness · Aug 01, 2023 edition

Five Immune-Boosting Foods to Help Fight Off a Summer Cold

From the Genius House Hacks archive.

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A cold in the middle of summer feels like an especially unwelcome guest. Over-the-counter medicine helps with symptoms, but the right foods can give the body's natural defenses a boost while it runs its course.

Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are hydrating sources of vitamin C, an antioxidant that plays an important role in immune function.

Bananas

Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6, bananas also supply electrolytes that can help fight the fatigue that comes with a cold.

Eggs

Eggs are loaded with protein, an important nutrient for the body while it's fighting off illness, and the yolk in particular carries immune-supporting nutrients like zinc and selenium.

Fatty Fish

Salmon or tuna supply DHA-rich fish oil, which research has linked to increased activity in B-cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in immune response.

Yogurt

A protein-rich choice, especially Greek yogurt, and a live-culture variety adds probiotics that may help ease the severity of a cold, plus it pairs well with all that vitamin-C-rich fruit.

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