Help beat the symptoms of the flu with these superfoods
The flu is tough to beat – but it doesn’t have to be. Don't despair: whether you’re suffering under the duvet or soldiering on, Energia and GIY can help. We're teaming up to bring you the 5 ingredients (and recipes) you can cook this week to help you beat the flu and boost your immune system.
Garlic
This potent little member of the onion family not only tastes delicious, it also helps to boost your immune system. Containing a huge variety of vitamins including C, B6 and manganese, as well as a number of beneficial sulphur compounds, it helps to reduce your likelihood of catching the flu and common cold, AND can reduce how long it affects you for!
Try GIY’s Potato, Kale and Roast Garlic Soup.
Chilli
If you’re suffering from blocked nostrils you should grab a chilli The capsaicin compound found in hot varieties will clear out your airways. They’re also great sources of antioxidant Vitamin C, Vitamin B6 and beta-carotene, which helps to boost your immune system.
Try GIY’s Tempura with Spicy Dipping Sauce.
Lemon
The mighty lemon is packed full of Vitamin C, and it’s more antiseptic than its orange cousin. These two vital elements combined can help to ward off the common cold and the flu. Combine with hot water to help clear out your sinuses and breathe freely.
Try GIY’s Celeriac and Beetroot with Lemon, Chilli and Mint
Honey
Honey is one of those magic ingredients that can be prescribed to help the symptoms of many illnesses. It’s full of natural antiseptics and antioxidant properties, a result of phenols found in the liquid which help clear bacteria from the body, and it can lower cholesterol and blood pressure too.
Try GIY’s Superfoods Seasonal Slaw
Ginger
Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive oil that has been used as a medicinal aid for thousands of years. Not only does it contain antioxidant qualities that can help flush the flu out of your system it also acts as an anti-inflammatory, soothing the sore muscles which can be a symptom of the illness.
Try GIY’s Steamed Pak Choi with Green Chilli, Ginger and Peanut