While suffering from flu or cold, it often happens that we get tempted towards packaged chips, cookies and soups, but you will be surprised to know that while they taste good to your buds, they are bad for the immune system.
It has been proven that they dehydrate the body and also weaken the digestive system.
This piece of information talks about the food items you should eat while suffering from flu and cold as they will help you enhance the essential nutrients like vitamin, protein, zinc and fibre in the body which will further help you fight the infection and get over the weakness.
1. Broth
The broth is a savoury liquid made of water in which bones, meat, or vegetables have been simmered. It is rich in nutrients and when consumed during hydration as a soup, it keeps the body hydrated and the warm ingredients like spices and juices from meat help soothe a sore throat and relieve congestion.
2. Chicken soup
While some experts believe that one should avoid chicken soup during flu, another set of experts feel that chicken soup has the benefits of broth and rich ingredients as well. It is suggested to increase the nutritional value of the dish with blanched veggies and herbs.
3. Garlic
It has been proven that garlic helps fight flu. It also reduces the chances of catching an illness faster. According to experts, one should consume raw garlic or aged garlic extract to gain maximum benefits while suffering from flu.
4. Yogurt
The live cultures of yogurt help soothe a sore throat and can also boost the immune system. It has been proven that it contains protein that helps you fight weakness.
5. Vitamin C rich fruits
When suffering from flu, the immune system is badly affected and calls for extra care. According to health experts, fruits and veggies rich in vitamin C not only boost the immune system, but also help in strengthening of cartilage and bones. The best source of vitamin C are strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprout and citrus fruits like orange and lemon.
6. Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in vitamin C and E and have immune-enhancing nutrients It is suggested to consume them in the form of smoothie during flu to boost the immune system.
7. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in antioxidant vitamins that give immune system a boost and also contains choline, a nutrient essential to a healthy diet. It has been proven that choline keeps the cells functioning properly and also supports a healthy gastrointestinal barrier, keeping bacteria safely confined in the gut. It is rich in immune-boosting vitamins C and E, along with calcium and fibre as well.
8. Egg yolk
Eggs are rich in protein and are helpful in immune-related problems. They contain zinc and selenium, which are important minerals that help boost the immune system. It is suggested that if you are suffering from cholesterol issues, then consume only one egg yolk a day.
9. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known for its antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, which indirectly, helps in boosting the immune system. You can mix it into your coffee grinds or tea for an immunity-fighting brew. You can also sprinkle some on your fruit salad or oatmeal to gain maximum benefits.
What to avoid?
According to experts, if you are suffering from flu, it is important to avoid alcohol, aerated drinks, packaged and processed food. They not only dehydrate the body but also contain excess artificial sugar and chemicals that reduce your body’s efficiency to fight against flu and colds.
Source: Times of India
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