Technically, colds and flu are not the same. Although they have some of the same symptoms, the flu can be much more severe because it’s caused by different viruses than a cold. Here you can find out how colds and flu differ and whether you suffer from one or the other.
When the immune system is weakened a virus can attack and harm the body more easily. Living a healthy lifestyle, eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, spending time outdoors and wearing appropriate clothing helps to strengthen the immune system and can help prevent colds and flu.
But what if we already have caught a cold or flu? It leaves us weak for a shorter or longer period of time and usually we have problems keeping up with our busy lifestyle. Some might think that taking some antibiotics will help but because colds and flu are caused by viruses and not bacteria antibiotics are useless.
So, what can we do to get rid of the unpleasant symptoms of colds and flu and get fit again?
Try these 8 foods (and drinks) to beat cold and flu symptoms:
- Water, herbal infusions, fruit teas: drink plenty and aim for 8 glasses of fluid per day. Try hot water with honey (to coat a sore throat) and lemon (to help with swollen throat tissues and fight off virus cells). Good hydration is important to help keep mucus thin and help lessen congestion. Avoid dehydrating drinks such as alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Fruits, vegetables and juices: plenty of vitamin C to reduce cold symptoms and strengthen the immune system. Aim for 5-a-day as suggested by the British Dietetic Association.
Strawberries, citrus fruits, broccoli and peppers are good sources of vitamin C. See here how vitamin C can help with colds and flu.
- Chicken soup: studies suggest benefits in improving some of the common symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, sneezing, sore throat and chills. Chicken soup is hydrating and nourishing, may increase nasal airflow due to inhalation of vapours and may loosen respiratory secretions enhancing their removal.
Lean protein from e.g. turkey, chicken, lean meat, tofu and beans: a good protein intake is essential for the function of the immune system.
- Garlic – try to add plenty of fresh garlic into your diet. It helps fighting the symptoms of colds and flu and also fights free radicals.
Foods rich in vitamin B5 and zinc e.g. fresh vegetables, whole rye and whole wheat flour, eggs, brewer’s yeast, salt water fish, mushrooms, nuts and royal jelly. They promote antibody production and help the body fight against infections
Ice lollies/Ice pops: they can soothe a sore, dry, swollen or prickly throat and also help to keep you hydrated. Make sure they are made from 100% fruit juice and not sugar water.
Ginger: fresh or powdered and added to food or enjoyed as a tea. This home remedy can soothe stomach ache and nausea and can help fight inflammation as studies suggest.
Claudia Ehrlicher is a certified dietitian with a real passion for food, teaching and motivating people to lead a healthy life. She regularly writes on Healthspan’s Nutrition Expert and London Dietitian. ALSO READ: Foods To Love Your Liver 10 Ways To Fight The Flab
Read this and other stories on our free app for iTunes or for Android phones Download our latest edition of TheGayUK on your Apple Device Download our latest edition of TheGayUK on your Android Device
To republish this post please visit HEALTH: 8 Foods to Beat Cold and Flu Symptoms
