With the flu virus rampant, it is more important than ever to take precautions to stay healthy. Some lifestyle factors that keep the flu at bay include staying hydrated, washing your hands frequently, exercising and most importantly, eating clean. Here are 4 foods that can help you stay healthy this winter.
Guava
- A tropical delight that can help chase away your winter blues! Guava is a sweet, pink tropical fruit that is not only rich in tropical taste, but also in vitamins A and C potassium and magnesium. Some varieties have extremely high levels of the anti-oxidant lycopene which may prevent coronary artery disease. Try incorporating it into a salsa this winter instead of tomatoes!
Pomelo
- Pomelos, an ancestor of the grapefruit, packs in tons of flavanones, a class of antioxidants that have been shown to help prevent the spread of cancerous cells. It also contains potassium and folic acid. It can easily replace grapefruit, orange or even pineapple in many recipes.
Sunflower Seeds
- Seeds are the new nuts. A handful of sunflower seeds will take care of your hunger, while also enhancing your health by supplying significant amounts of both magnesium and selenium. Sunflower seeds are also an excellent source of vitamin E, the body's primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E travels throughout the body neutralizing free radicals that would otherwise damage fat-containing structures and molecules, such as cell membranes, brain cells, and cholesterol.
Honey
- A wonderful and all natural sweetener is honey. The average American consumes nearly 1.5 pounds of honey annually, and can benefit from a variety of health benefits which include:
- Natural Energy Booster: Natural sugars prevent fatigue and provide immediate energy boost
- Immune System Builder: Antioxidants help improve digestive system and fights disease
- Alleviates Hangovers: Natural sugars speed up the oxidation of alcohol in the liver
- Treats Sore Throats: Antimicrobial properties kill bacteria and soothe the throat better than over the counter cough syrup
Keep in mind, all fruits and vegetables are great options to enjoy- whether they are fresh or frozen. Nuts and seeds add variety to our diets and try to enjoy whole foods whenever possible. Eat clean and live better!
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