Feed A Cold, Starve a Fever -- How Does That Go Again?

The cold season is upon us, and it affects about one billion people in the U.S. every year. But there are ways to greatly reduce the risk of those sneezing, sore throat, stuffy nose, coughing cold symptoms. Eating the right foods will help.

The 3 best foods you can eat to avoid a cold

The best move is to prevent colds in the first place, and the 3 best foods that help prevent colds are sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts and beef. Why? Because they strengthen your immune system.


Sweet potatoes - are full of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is important because it converts to vitamin A which helps boost the immune system's ability to fight off infection.

Brussels sprouts - not everyone likes this vegetable but it sure is a cold fighter. It contains soluble fiber which can decrease inflammation in the body.

Beef - lean beef contains lots of zinc, and zinc is important to boost the immune system.

Other ways to fight a cold

There are other ways to fight a cold, including:

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of liquids
• Wash hands frequently
• Don't touch your eyes or nose
• Stay away from people with colds