by Fry’s Food Stores
Although fall brings many favorites like pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters, it also brings cooler temperatures and the start of cold and flu season. While there’s no particular food that will guarantee a sick-free fall, there are some seasonal foods loaded with nutrients to help keep your immune system strong.
From sweet potatoes and squash to pumpkins and cranberries, adding some of these fall favorites to your plate will net you the nutrients to power through the season. A few superfoods to take advantage of include:
Pumpkins — A great source of potassium, iron, zinc and beta carotene, pumpkins also contain an immune-boosting provitamin that is converted to Vitamin A.
Sweet potatoes — Loaded with antioxidants and vitamin A, sweet potatoes are a great superfood to support immune health.
Pomegranates — These contain immune-supporting nutrients like vitamin C that can prevent growth of bacteria and virus.
Butternut squash — Commonly referred to as a vegetable even though it’s technically a fruit, butternut squash is packed with beta-carotene and vitamin C, which are great immunity-boosters.
Cranberries — A favorite on Thanksgiving, cranberry sauce and cranberries have vitamin C and polyphenols that boost immune health.
In addition to eating essential foods to maintain optimal health, getting the right vaccinations can help minimize the chances of getting sick. Fry’s Food Stores offers free flu shots through most insurance plans, available at a Fry’s Pharmacy near you.