Dairy Council of California - Flu season is here, and with fears over the H1N1 virus circulating it’s prudent that every reasonable precaution against getting sick be taken.

Well known protective measures include hand washing and cough covering, but healthy eating should also be considered as a potent prevention method.

“It’s important to eat a variety of healthy foods from all food groups throughout the year, but it’s particularly significant during flu season,” said Andrea Garen, Registered Dietitian and Project Manager with Dairy Council of California. “Adding flu-fighting foods like yogurt and other cultured milk products containing probiotics, garlic and citrus to your diet can boost your body’s immune system and help ward off infections like the flu.”

Nutrients known for playing a role in a healthy immune system include the antioxidants Vitamin E and Vitamin C, the minerals selenium and zinc, Vitamin D and fish oils containing omega-3 fatty acids. Most Americans get the recommended Daily Value of these nutrients in their diet, but not so with omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin D. What’s more, early research suggests low levels of Vitamin D may be linked to a seasonal increase in colds and flu and a higher incidence of respiratory infections.

It’s simple to add Vitamin D to the diet by drinking fortified milk. Just check the label to be sure the milk you’re drinking has been fortified with this crucial nutrient.

To help families eat healthy and boost their immune systems, Garen compiled a Flu-Fighting Foods cookbook on the free family-nutrition website Meals Matter, sponsored by Dairy Council of California. View the cookbook at www.mealsmatter.org/Cookbooks/DCC/flufightingfoods.