I don’t know about you, but I prefer not to get a flu shot. That doesn’t mean you want to get the flu. No way! But I’d rather stay healthy by eating delicious food than getting poked with a needle. Some may call me crazy … Oh wait! They already called me crazy! Glad it’s out of the way.

There are many easily accessible foods that can help you stay healthy and boost your immune system. We know when cold and flu season hits in September, when kids go back to school, and in January after eating too much candy over the holidays. So why not strengthen your immune system in August and again starting in the last week of December? Boost your immune system to super strength to fight the cold and flu when you hit the door.

Vitamin C is important. Oranges are a perfect source of vitamin C. Nature knows we need extra help during the winter months, as this is when oranges and most citrus fruits are in season. We can shorten the duration of a cold by 80% when we get enough vitamin C. A great way to start the day is with a good glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

Did you know that dark chocolate is really good for you? Not the dark chocolate you can get at the corner store, but the things you buy at the health food store. Cocoa is extremely rich in antioxidants. These little antioxidants help strengthen your immune system. What I’m really saying is that you can eat chocolate, the dark kind that is low in sugar, to fight the flu. Isn’t it cool? I can’t think of anything better than eating to stay healthy.

When you are bitten by the flu virus, chicken soup is a wonderful remedy. Grandma really knew what she was doing when she made chicken soup when I was sick. There are mild anti-inflammatory properties in chicken soup that help prevent and cure colds and flu. Homemade soup is really the best, but if you’re in a hurry, things in the can will help. Make sure you get the one with the most treats like onion, celery, carrots, garlic, parsley, etc.

There are many more foods you can eat on a daily basis to help strengthen your immune system so you can fight the cold and flu this season. Are you wondering what they are? I hope you stay healthy this year!