HEALTH AWARENESS Helpful Tips For Getting Through Flu Season

(NAPSI)-Here's food for thought: Can your diet boost your immunity or help you recover from a cold or flu more quickly? "A healthy diet can help reduce risk and help you get better faster, but a strong immune system can't fight off every cold and flu germ that comes your way," explained Christine Gerbstadt, M.D., a registered dietitian and national spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. "A healthy, nutrient-rich diet based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans offers the best protection against illness," she added. Here are a few tips on getting the most health benefits from your food during flu season: Variety: Whether they're canned, frozen or fresh, adding more fruits and vegetables into your diet can help you get the most nutrients and vitamins from your foods. Selecting foods from all the food groups will also help you get protein, calcium and fiber. "Focusing too much on one food group and not enough on others can cause deficiencies in your diet," said Dr. Gerbstadt. Vitamins: "Most healthy people can get the nutrients they need from food," Dr. Gerbstadt said. Food Safety: During flu season, how you eat is as important as what you eat. Following food safety rules can significantly reduce your risk of illness. Washing your hands before and after food preparation can ensure you aren't spreading germs. Wash all vegetables and fruits before eating. Healthy Lifestyle: Get plenty of sleep. Physical activity is always an important part of staying healthy. Dr. Gerbstadt also advised you "ask a registered dietitian or your doctor before taking any supplements or making any major changes to your diet. There's no secret weapon in the fight against the flu: An overall healthy lifestyle is your best defense." She is a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. You can learn more at www.eatright.org.

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