Food to feed baby to help avoid colds and the flu

How did winter creep up so quickly – best summer ever and then boom, cooler mornings, cooler, dark mornings, cooler, dark, dreary mornings are suddenly upon us. And with the change to frost-proof undies comes the cold and flu season. Here are some superhero foods that will keep your family healthy and the sniffles at bay.

Vitamin C:

Eat: Oranges, lemons, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, kiwifruit, bell peppers, papaya, brussels sprouts

While the jury is out on whether taking high doses of vitamin C has any significant effects on colds or flu symptoms, Vitamin C is well-known as a general immune-booster, and some studies show that it may actually help prevent the onset of colds and flu.

Chicken bone broth

Chicken bone broth is a virus-fighting superfood from beginning to end. Going down, the warm broth helps soothe sore throats and is easy to consume. It is packed with anti-inflammatory amino acids glycine and proline to boost the immune system and helps thin mucous secretions, so congestion in the nose, chest and throat will be alleviated too. You can find organic bone broth in the refrigerated section of the supermarket, or you can easily make it in a crock pot or slow cooker. You can drink it as is or add noodles, shredded chicken, or blend it with your favourite veggies to increase the nutrient levels of the broth.

Lean meat:

Good iron levels are essential for a strong immune system, and the most efficient way to maintain good iron levels is by eating lean meat. Not only does it supply a source of iron that is easily absorbed by the body, but it also contains good supplies of zinc, another infection-fighting mineral. So if you're feeling a little sniffly, eating a piece of lean red meat, poultry (chicken soup perhaps?), fish or shellfish will help you fight those bugs.

Garlic:

Garlic is nature’s antibiotic. It’s antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-oxidant properties help to, not only fight infection but to prevent sickness in the first place. The oily compound allicin (that gives garlic its distinctive smell) works its cold-fighting magic and helps boost the immune system.. And you don't have to eat garlic in its natural form to see the benefits - garlic supplements such as powder, oil and extracts all have similar healing powers. Just a clove or two a day is enough to keep the doctor away

Keep it all in perspective:

When you're taking care of a sick, miserable baby, try to remember that most winter illnesses pass in a week or so — and all of them will help strengthen your child's immune system. As your baby gets older and builds up immunity to viruses, including many of the 200 that cause the common cold, he'll log fewer and fewer sick days. In the meantime, keep up the hand washing — and stock up on tissues.