Steer Clear of the Flu With These 6 Immunity-Boosting Foods

Green tea can help you lose weight and de-stress, but it has also been linked to preventing the flu. In one study, Japanese children who drank green tea six times a week were less likely to catch a bug than their peers.

Fermented foods have been in the news for all their probiotic properties — and their interesting taste! Naturopath practitioner Dr. Holly Lucille also suggests taking a high-quality probiotic supplement since "89 percent of our immune system" is driven by having good microflora in your gut that help battle viruses. For vegetarians or vegans who want the "good" bacteria in probiotics, sauerkraut is one of your best nondairy options.

Clinical and holistic dietitian Esther Blum explains that bone broth is rich in glutamine and glycine, two amino acids that "help repair cells and heal gut inflammation." During the colder months, Esther starts each day with a cup of bone broth and calls it her new "drug of choice." She says it has played a major role in keeping her family healthy and flu-free this year.

The phytonutrients in raw honey have antibacterial and antiviral properties that can boost your immune system and fight off bugs. Regularly stirring some in a cup of hot tea or squeezing some on your breakfast oatmeal can help keep your body feeling strong all Fall long.

Vitamin C is the ultimate immunity booster. Instead of taking back a supplement, go straight to the source and eat fresh citrus — and drinking juice isn't enough! Enjoy slices of oranges or grapefruit instead since it's the white skin of the fruit that contains the most flavonoids, which have been linked to increase immune system activity.

If the only time you enjoy ginger is when you're out for Asian food, it's time to start incorporating this fresh ginger into your regular diet. Beyond adding a ton of natural flavor to your favorite basic dishes, ginger also has major antiviral properties that can keep you healthy and help heal your body if you're all ready sick.