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BOB HIRSHON (host):
Can fruit stop the flu? I’m Bob Hirshon and this is Science Update.
A compound called quercetin found in fruits, vegetables and tea may help prevent flu infection. Researchers at Clemson and the University of South Carolina tested the compound on groups of mice. Some of the mice were exhausted from heavy exercise—a condition known to make mice and people susceptible to infection. The mice were then exposed to flu viruses. Those that had been given quercitin were less likely to become infected. Quercetin has also been shown to fight infections in people, but hasn’t been specifically tested on the flu.
In other nutrition news, a Purdue researcher has found that eating more protein at breakfast helps dieters resist overeating during the day. So while it may seem strange to add eggs, cheese, nuts and lean meats to your breakfast when you’re trying to lose weight, it may actually make it easier. I’m Bob Hirshon for AAAS, the Science Society.