As we enter the fall and winter months, respiratory infections such as the common cold and flu tend to make their rounds.

While there are preventative measures you can take such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, certain kitchen ingredients can also help boost your immune system and fight off infections. Here are some of the top ingredients to keep stocked in your kitchen this cold and flu season:.

Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and has been shown to have antiviral and antibacterial effects. It contains a compound called allicin, which can boost immune function and help fight off infections.

Try adding fresh minced garlic to soups, pastas, and roasted vegetables for a tasty and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

Ginger

Ginger is another powerful ingredient that can help fight off respiratory infections due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a soothing effect on the throat and can help relieve coughing.

Try adding fresh ginger root to hot tea or soup for a warm and comforting way to fight off infections.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains a compound called curcumin that can help boost the immune system and combat infections.

Try adding turmeric to soups, stews, and marinades for a flavorful and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

Honey

Honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for coughs and sore throats. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Try adding a spoonful of honey to tea or warm water with lemon for a comforting and immune-boosting drink.

Lemon

Lemon is high in vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and can help reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu. It also has antibacterial properties and can help soothe sore throats.

Try adding fresh lemon juice to water, tea, or salad dressings for a refreshing and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has been a go-to remedy for colds and flu for generations, and for good reason.

It contains a range of immune-boosting ingredients including chicken bone broth, which is high in the amino acid cysteine, and vegetables such as carrots and celery, which contain immune-boosting vitamins and minerals. Try making a batch of homemade chicken soup with plenty of vegetables for a comforting and immune-boosting meal.

Oregano

Oregano is a spice commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine that has potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains a compound called carvacrol that can help fight off infections and boost immune function.

Try adding fresh or dried oregano to pasta dishes, soups, and roasted vegetables for a flavorful and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

Yogurt

Yogurt contains probiotics, which are healthy bacteria that can help boost immune function and prevent respiratory infections.

Look for yogurt that contains live and active cultures, and try adding it to smoothies, toppings, or dips for a tasty and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

Spinach

Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green that is high in immune-boosting vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and iron. It also contains antioxidants that can help combat inflammation in the body.

Try adding spinach to salads, smoothies, or omelets for a tasty and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

Almonds

Almonds are a nutrient-dense nut that are high in immune-boosting vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E and magnesium. They also contain healthy fats and protein that can help keep you feeling full and energized.

Try adding almonds to oatmeal, salads, or trail mix for a tasty and immune-boosting addition to your meals.

By incorporating these immune-boosting ingredients into your meals, you can help fight off respiratory infections and keep your immune system strong all season long.