Influenza
Influenza is a respiratory illness caused by infection with a type of influenza virus. Traditionally, flu season in the U.S. is seasonal and runs from late fall to winter/early spring. Symptoms appear one to four days after infection, and most commonly include: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches, chills and weakness/fatigue. Most patients recover within a week or two. However, the elderly, young children, and patients with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing flu complications, like pneumonia, bronchitis or worsening of underlying medical conditions.

In an average flu season, up to 20 percent of Americans get the flu. More than 200,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized for flu-related complications and 36,000 people die.

This year, there is a second type of flu circulating around the world, the H1N1 flu (formerly called, swine flu). In June, the World Health Organization declared the H1N1 flu was widespread and had reached pandemic levels. Cases have been reported in all 50 states. Currently, the CDC reports widespread flu activity throughout the U.S., with 99 percent of cases being the H1N1 type. The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to those of the seasonal flu. However, some patients with H1N1 flu also have vomiting and diarrhea.

From August 30 to October 3, 2009 (updates are available at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly), H1N1 has been linked to more than 3870 hospitalizations and 240 deaths. Unlike seasonal flu, more cases of H1N1 are being reported in patients under 25 than among those 65 and older. Pregnant women and people with underlying chronic medical conditions are most at risk for H1N1 flu complications.

Foods to Fight the Flu
The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine. Experts say it’s also wise to make sure your immune system is strong, so that it will be better equipped to attack invading flu viruses. And if you do get sick, a strong immune system may help you recover faster.

One of the key factors in keeping the immune system in prime condition is a healthy diet. Ara DerMarderosian, Ph.D., Pharmacognosist with the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, says there are certain foods that boost the immune system. Here are some of his picks:

* Meat. It may sound counter to healthy eating, but meat contains protein, which is broken down by the body into essential chemicals, called amino acids. Not all meat is created equal. Look for meats, like fish, that are low in saturated fat and contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Chicken and other poultry products are also good picks. Small amounts of beef aren’t bad for you, but beef tends to have a lot of unhealthy saturated fat. Meats and chicken also have zinc, an important mineral.

* Garlic and onions. If you can get past the pungent smell and flavor, garlic and onions contain chemicals that have antibacterial and antiviral properties.

* Mushrooms. Mushrooms contain several important vitamins and minerals, low amounts of sodium and no fat or cholesterol. Researchers are learning that some varieties of mushrooms have powerful immune stimulating properties.

* Vegetables. Many vegetables contain high amounts of immune boosting antioxidants, like beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene and selenium. Look for a variety of dark colors. DerMarderosian suggests cooking the vegetables when you aren’t feeling well to make them easier to digest.

* Citrus fruits. Citrus fruits are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. DerMarderosian says orange juice can be used in place of the whole fruit, but be careful to purchase a brand that contains real juice.

* Yogurt. As a dairy product, yogurt contains calcium and vitamin D. Look for yogurt that contains “live active cultures.” These cultures are beneficial bacteria that keep the digestive system in good health and support the immune system. Many fruited yogurts contain a significant amount of sugar, so mix your own fruit with the yogurt.

* Chicken soup. Scientists have found the age-old remedy really has value because it contains many healthy immune-boosting ingredients. The warm broth and soft cooked vegetables and meat are easy to swallow when you have a sore throat.



Diet is only one part of a strong immune system. Experts say you should get adequate sleep, drink plenty of fluids, exercise, don’t smoke and, if you drink, do so in moderation. Another important tip to reduce your risk for getting the flu is to wash your hands frequently.

AUDIENCE INQUIRY
For information on the flu:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, http://www.niaid.nih.gov
US Department of Health and Human Services, http://www.flu.gov

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Alperovich, Michael, et al., “Fatty Acid Intake and the Risk of Community-Acquired Pneumonia,” Nutrition, March 2007, Vol. 23, No. 3, pp. 196-202.

Cannell, John, M.D., and Bruce Hollis, Ph.D., “Use of Vitamin D in Clinical Practice,” Alternative Medicine Review, March 2008, Vol. 13, No. 1, pp. 6-20.

Leyer, G., et al., “Probiotic Effects on Cold and Influenza-like Symptom Incidence and Duration in Children,” Pediatrics, August 2009, Vol. 124, No. 2, pp. e127-e129.

Monto, A., “The Risk of Seasonal and Pandemic Influenza,” Clinical Infectious Diseases, January 1, 2009, Vol. 48, Suppl. 1, pp. S20-S25.

Rowe, Cheryl, Ph.D., et al., “Specific Formulation of Camellia sinensis Prevents Cold and Flu Symptoms and Enhances yo T Cell Function,” Journal of the American College of Nutrition, October 2007, Vol. 26, No. 5, pp. 445-452.

Wong, Chit-Mong, et al., “Is Exercise Protective Against Influenza-Associated Mortality?” PLoS ONE, May 2008, Vol. 3, No. 5, p. e2108.