Fighting the flu can be as easy as checking and seeing what you have hiding in your kitchen cupboards. Did you know that many common foods and herbs can help ward off the flu and help you to beat those “icky” germs this winter? Many people tend to think that medicine is the only way to fight the flu, but that just isn’t the case. 

Before you dig in further, go get your flu shot from the local Loblaws if you haven’t already. Their in-store pharmacists are always available to help you stay current with the vaccination. 

Okay, so If you’ve been wondering what foods will help you get through flu season, you may be surprised to know that you probably already have some of them in your home. Here are five to check for in your cabinets and fridge!

Five foods to help you get through flu season that you have in your kitchen and five more to add to your grocery list

Check the fridge and pantry and see if you have any of these foods!

• Raw garlic

• Cinnamon

• Onions

• Cloves

• Broth

How does your kitchen hold up? If you have these five foods, you’re in great shape to tackle the remainder of flu season head on! If not, be sure to add them to your grocery list, along with a few other nutrient-rich options.

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What are some nutrient-rich foods to stock up on in advance of cold and flu season? 

If you have the ability to stock up on foods, do so! Buying broth and keeping it in your pantry for later is always a great idea! Other foods to keep in your home during the flu season are fruits and vegetables – they are packed with vitamin C. Oranges are always a great choice to give your body that extra boost of nutrients, but peppers are another great way to get vitamin C, in fact they contain even more vitamin C than citrus fruits.

How do I introduce my family to new nutrient-rich foods? 

The best way to introduce your family to new nutrient-rich foods is to do so on a gradual basis. Start by incorporating more vegetables into your dinner and then introduce the sweeter fruits after that. Adding garlic to your meals isn’t hard to do and can also be a simple way to “sneak” in a bit more nutrition.

What foods are best to eat to speed up the flu recovery process? 

Bone broth is packed-full of health benefits and can be a great option to help speed up the flu recovery process. Anything type of foods that pack a punch of vitamin C is always a good bet as well. 

What are some family-friendly, healthy recipes that will help keep the flu at bay? 

Finding healthy recipes can be fun!  Combine Greek yogurt, honey, and oranges for not just a sweet treat but one that can also help fight the flu. Another great recipe is a giant bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup made with bone broth and lots of vegetables.

While there were five foods mentioned above, don’t miss out on other great options as well! Here are 5 other foods to add to your grocery list during flu season:

• Oatmeal

• Broccoli

• Tomatoes

• Strawberries

• Spinach

If you can plan on your weekly meals to have these ingredients sprinkled throughout, you are ahead of the game in offering great and nutritious food to your family to help fight the flu!

Head to Loblaws to book an appointment with one of their in-store registered dietitians for more information on foods that help support good overall and immune health, and while you’re there, visit your in-store pharmacist for your flu shot.

****Disclosure: This post is written in partnership with Loblaws but thoughts expressed here are my own and honest****