New York, Feb 17 (IANS): You can try your best to keep the flu away, but you end up with a runny nose anyway. With the onset of flu season, it's time to stock up on food and drinks that can keep you healthy.

Here are some of the best immunity-boosting food items, reports huffingtonpost.com:

* Broth-based soup: Chicken noodle soup can actually help soothe a cold. The chicken contains an amino acid called cysteine, which helps thin mucus in the lungs, and the hot broth helps to keep nasal passages moist, prevent dehydration and fight inflammation in the throat.

* Hot tea: Warm liquids can soothe a sore throat and alleviate congestion, so drinks like freshly-brewed green tea, which is rich in infection-fighting antioxidants and supports the immune system, or hot water with lemon are ideal for staying hydrated while helping out that stuffy nose.

* Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits might not cure you completely, but the soft white layer of skin found on oranges, lemons, grapefruits and limes does contain flavonoids, which can help boost the immune system and are great for speeding recovery.

* Spicy food items: They can make our noses runny and eyes watery, but they're also effective natural decongestants. Eating chili peppers or horseradish can help relieve the symptoms of congestion.