NORTH TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM) – They’re not on the level of hand-washing and flu vaccinations, but there are some foods that can boost your immunity to help you fight the flu.

Dietitian Mary Grace Webb said you can eat your way to better health. Some pantry basics can boost immunity and help fight colds and the flu.

Foods high in Vitamin C are a good choice. Even vegetable-rich salsa can give you a boost.
Research also suggests that onions, garlic, ginger and honey can have anti-microbial effects.

Some yogurts contain good bacteria that can battle bad bugs naturally – when it comes to the risk for bacterial infections. Colds and the flu, of course, are viral infections.

Mushrooms produce cells that can fight infection, and foods rich in selenium, such as nuts, can build the immune system.

Webb says drinking hot chocolate made with pure cocoa powder can be beneficial, too.

Having a little chicken soup couldn’t hurt.  “There’s also chemicals some people have looked at in chicken soup that have some benefit, but again no big studies done,” Dr. Sorana Segal-Maurer says. “People have not been able to say, ‘Ah, there’s one particular ingredient in it.’ But it tastes good.”

Doctors advise balance, so don’t overeat any food thinking you’ll get extra benefits.

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