How to boost your immune system

Some people sweat by vitamin pills while others do not recommend taking them. To fight against cold viruses in the work place there is one way above all the rest: a balanced diet, reports the German news magazine 'Focus' on their website. This is why fruits and vegetables should be on your daily menu.

Some workers try to get rid of their cold using nutritional supplements. It is uncertain if this actually helps. "Nutritional supplements are not medicine. If someone already has a cold, they will not all of a sudden get better by eating healthier," says Antje Gahl from the 'Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung' (DGE) (German society of Nutrition). However, if workers eat balanced meals they will not get sick in the first place. For example, in the fall it is good to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, because that will strengthen your immune system.

Oranges, grapefruit and tangerines contain a lot of vitamin C, says Gahl. Paprika's, kale and Brussels sprouts are highly recommended vegetables. "Half a paprika is enough to fulfil your vitamin C quota for one day," says Gahl. It is also good to get enough vitamin A as a preventative measure. Vegetables rich in vitamin A include carrots, spinach and kale.

If you already have a light cold, it is best to drink herbal tea at the office, advises Gahl. Thyme helps against coughing, sage fights germs, chamomile is soothing and mint relieves breathing. To sweeten your tea it is best to use honey: this works as an antibacterial and expectorant.