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You might not think much about eating if you’re feeling under the weather.
However, the foods you consume with acoldcan impact your recovery.
Chicken Soup
Turns out, your grandmother was right.
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A bowl of chicken soup is, in fact, beneficial when you have a cold.
The soup is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
It also contains electrolytes, which can keep you hydrated.
The warm steam can also help clear congestion in your nose and sinuses.
A Word From Verywell
Soups are an excellent meal option when fighting a cold.
Theyre easy to eat and digest, especially when you feel fatigued or have a poor appetite.
Adding ingredients like meat, beans, and vegetables provides essential nutrients for recovery.
High-Antioxidant Foods and Drinks
Antioxidants are substances that prevent cell damage.
Foods and drinks that contain many antioxidants may help fight illnesses.
Some research has shown the antioxidantquercetinmight help ward off the common cold.
Foods that contain quercetin include:
4.
Examples are:
5.
Chili Peppers
Chili peppers are known to spice up different dishes.
They may also help clear a stuffy nose if you have a cold.
Some research has found thatcapsaicin, the active ingredient in spicy peppers, may help lessen symptoms of coughing.
you could chew on raw ginger or make ginger tea to help ease a sore throat.
Garlic
Garlic containsallicin, which has anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antibacterial properties.
Some people even consume raw garlic.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile teacan soothe cold symptoms, like a sore throat.
It contains antioxidants and compounds that may lessen inflammation.
Honey
Honeyhas antimicrobial properties that could help treat infections.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Cherries
Cherries contain a lot of vitamin C to help with immune support.
Consuming tartcherry juicemay also promote better sleep.
Thats because the juice containstryptophanandmelatonin, which regulate sleep.Adequate sleep while youre sick can help strengthen your immune system.
Kiwi
Kiwicontains vitamins C, E,folate, potassium, copper, vitamin K, and polyphenols.
The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon may have an anti-inflammatory effect.
If you feel like dairy products worsen your symptoms, it’s a good idea to avoid them.
Simple tasks, like eating, can be unenjoyable.
However, it’s important to include healthy, whole foods in your diet while you’re sick.
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