Fight flu with food

Health departments around the country are reporting a shortage on the H1N1 vaccine and are recommending the elderly, children under 18 and pregnant women have first access to the vaccine.

This means women between the ages of 40 and 65 will be among the last to receive the vaccine, so it might be smart to look at alternative methods to fight the flu this season.

Medical experts at The Cleveland Clinic say strengthening your immune system can help fight off illness including the flu, whether you are exposed to the H1N1 strain or the regular seasonal flu.

Some ways to boost your immune system include exercising, getting plenty of sleep and eating a diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients.

Nutritionists at the clinic suggest starting off slowly and striving to make healthier choices continuously. Some suggestions for incremental improvements include replacing red meats with healthier seafood options, using only olive oil in cooking and eating more fruits and vegetables.

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