What to Eat When you Have a Cold
What to Eat When you Have a Cold
Eating and drinking are often the last things on your mind when you get sick. Even so, getting the right food helps you recover faster and have a less terrible time when you’re under the weather.
1. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea helps increase antibacterial activity in the body. Another key benefit for colds is that it supports sleep, which is vital for healthy immunity. One study showed postpartum women who drank the tea for a few weeks slept better compared to women who didn’t. No matter how you have your chamomile, you’re sure to sleep – and feel – better.2. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, the natural component that gives it the vibrant color we know and love. Curcumin is also a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps increase immune cell activity and antibody response. It’s best to combine turmeric with black pepper, which improves curcumin bioavailability. Sprinkle some turmeric and black pepper onto your food or into your tea or smoothie.3. Dried Tart Cherries
Dried tart cherries are packed full of antioxidants that boost your immune system. One benefit is a reduced risk of upper respiratory tract symptoms. Cherries also contain melatonin to support natural sleep. This is vital because people who don’t sleep enough are more at-risk of getting sick. Eat the cherries as they are or stir them into some nut butter.4. Walnuts
As well as being rich in anti-inflammatories, walnuts are packed full of other nutrients that help support the immune system such as vitamins B6 and $, folate, and copper. Walnuts also help to reduce stress. This is vital because stress affects immunity. Chop walnuts up and have them as a garnish on other foods or eat them with dried cherries for a health-boosting snack.5. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is filled with antibacterial properties to reduce your risk of getting sick. It also has antioxidants that help to protect against inflammatory conditions including obesity, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Sauté some leafy greens in olive oil or drizzle it over a healthy carb like potatoes.6. Soup
Soup has been a mainstay for sick people for decades. Not only is there plenty of anecdotal evidence this works, but there’s also some scientific evidence to back it up. First of all, the steam eases congestion by boosting mucus movement. Soup also reduces inflammation, which helps because colds cause an inflammatory response leading to issues like stuffy noses. The salt from the soup also causes your body to retain water, easing dehydration and relieving dry mouth and headaches.Final Thoughts
Eating all the right foods won’t do much if you don’t also get all the rest and sleep you need. Try your best to not feel guilty about how long it’s taking you to recover. Everyone recovers differently. Trying to keep up appearances when you’re sick makes your cold last longer and increases your risk of infecting others. Take care of yourself and worry about everything else later.