Variety

No one food or food group can meet all of your nutrients needs. That’s why it’s important to eat from all the food groups and to eat lots of different foods from each group. Try to include new fruits and veggies each day into your diet and experiment with some old favorites, like spinach (see recipe).

Vitamins

Historically, vitamin C has been used to prevent colds. While this vitamin can help reduce symptoms and improve healing time, it can’t actually prevent illness. Vitamins work best when they work together and most individuals get all the vitamins they need from a balanced diet. (If you are interested in a vitamin supplement, talk with your healthcare provider about what’s best for you.)

Vigilance

How you prepare your food is just as important as what food you prepare. Food safety and good hygiene are especially important when your immune system is already working to fight off invaders, like a cold or flu virus. Wash your hands before and after you eat, disinfect all cooking surfaces and follow food safety guidelines for heating, cooling and storing leftovers.

Now is the perfect time to start warding off unwanted viruses. The three Vs, along with a healthful diet and balanced lifestyle, can help you say “adieu” to the cold and flu this season!