So You’ve Caught A Cold? Here’s How To Eat Yourself Better!
Colds and Winter go together like “rama lama lama ka dinga da dinga dong” (at least we think they’re the right lyrics) But unlike the classic 70’s musical, colds are not very enjoyable.
Blocked noses, headaches, and burning temperatures are no fun whatsoever. And while it’s hard to fight a common cold due to it’s viral nature, we have some good news - food can help!
Obviously not any and all foods, but certain foods are known for their somewhat medicinal qualities when it comes to fighting colds. Often when suffering with a cold your appetite is suppressed, however, it’s important to persevere with these tasty foods to get back to being fighting fit in no time!
Chicken Soup
Yep, you’re granny wasn’t talking nonsense when it comes to chicken soup and it’s curing properties for colds. In fact, chicken soup has been a remedy for colds and flus for centuries now. While science doesn’t exactly back up the idea that chicken soup cures the common cold, it does agree that some if it’s properties can relieve symptoms.
The heat can reduce congestion, breaking down mucus. Soup keeps you hydrated, and the salt can aid in soothing a sore throat.
Broths
Similar to chicken soup in its ability to break down mucus also contain a world of vitamins and minerals - boosting your immune system. Much like chicken soup, broths are easy to eat. Broths may be gentler on the stomach than a soup, so if your cold has brought with it a stomach bug a broth might be the best way to go. They’re full of flavour and so can leave you feeling satisfied.
Coconut Water
Colds leave you dehydrated, often drinking water isn’t enough to put back in your body what the cold is taking out. Coconut water is a great source of electrolytes which up your hydration levels. Coconut water is also a bit more flavoursome than water as it contains glucose, making it sweet.
Honey
Again, your granny probably told you about the attributes of honey especially when it comes to colds. A cup of hot water with lemon and honey springs to mind as the cure for everything! While it may not cure your cold, honey is known for its antibacterial properties. It was even used by the ancient Egyptians to dress wounds. Honey is also thought to soothe a cough, especially in small children.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods contain capsaicin, an active compound that simply put, make spicy foods spicy. The heat produced from spicy foods are thought to raise the body’s temperature and breakdown mucus and phlegm. This is especially helpful if your cold has shifted to a chest infection as spicy foods can aid your breathing.
While none of these foods can help cure your cold or flu completely they can aid in relieving symptoms in a natural way.
Should your symptoms proceed, it is always advised to seek professional medical attention.