Your recipe for fewer sick days Q: I had a bad bout of the flu a few months ago and used up all of my sick days at work. What can I do to keep from getting sick again this winter? Specifically, I'm wondering if there are any foods I can eat that will help, since I don't really like taking pills. JVW: There are dozens and dozens of foods that can help boost your immune system and prevent infections. Here are just a few you can try: First, eat more garlic. My Italian grandma frequently wore a garlic clove around her neck to ward off evil spirits. Fortunately, she ate a lot of garlic, too, and (perhaps as a result) rarely got infections. Modern research has shown that garlic -- particularly fresh raw garlic -- has a broad spectrum of antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral effects. One garlic clove (approximately 4 grams) eaten daily is a useful amount. And while you're increasing your garlic intake, throw a few mushrooms into the mix too. Mushrooms are among the most researched immune-boosting, infection-preventing foods. Among their principal active ingredients are polysaccharides, which can improve the body's germ-fighting capabilities. I know you mentioned you don't like taking pills, but if you can stomach just a few a day, a good-quality multivitamin can also help boost your immunity. Researchers have found that a basic multivitamin/mineral supplement can reduce overall illness, including infection, especially among the older population (age 60 and up). | 
