Flu Who?

Flu season is upon us and it is said that the best offense is a good defense. But, how do we defend against flu season, and even the common cold? Many people turn to natural antioxidants to build up their immune systems. These vitamins, minerals, and nutrients are found in food and food-based supplements including Vitamin E, Zinc, Vitamin B’s, and Vitamin C.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant powerhouse that helps the body fight infection. It’s concentrated in foods including spinach, seeds, and nuts.

Zinc is known for its proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and is found in foods including kidney beans, beef, flax seeds, and shrimp.

B6 is an integral component in the immune system. It supports biochemical reaction and is found in cold-water fish, chickpeas, chicken, and green vegetables.

Perhaps the superstar of immune system boosters is Vitamin C. Your body does not make or store C and the lack of it can greatly lower your resistance to colds and flus. Daily intake of foods rich in Vitamin C like oranges, grapefruit, bell peppers, and broccoli are recommended. But nutritional values in foods vary widely. For example Charles Benbrook from Washington State University’s Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources says, "Across the important antioxidant compounds in fruits and vegetables, organic fruits and vegetables deliver between 20 and 40 percent higher antioxidant activity.” And according to a study published last year, organic tomatoes, for example, were on average 50 percent higher in Vitamin C over non-organic and have a 139 percent higher phenolic content.

Food Research can support the fact that organic or wildcrafted whole foods are best for many reasons, including superior vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content. But, what if you cannot get 7-9 servings (what some recommend) of wholesome fruits and vegetables each day? You can do what many others do: purchase and take food-based vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from Food Research. The best defense is just a click away!