John Myers
Eating right when you have a cold can be a challenge. You either taste nothing or have no appetite. But even if you are hungry, some foods should be removed from the menu.
Eat right when you have a cold
When the throat is scratchy and the nose is running, we feel uncomfortable. In addition to the tried and tested chicken soup, there are a few other foods that get the immune system back on its feet.
- Chicken soup: As a source of energy-rich protein, it strengthens the immune system. This is probably due to the vitamins in the vegetables, but also to the carnosine content of the chicken meat. The soup also provides warmth, which loosens mucus and can relieve cold symptoms.
- Vitamin C: It is immediately associated with the immune system. However, the vitamin should also be taken prophylactically before infections occur. The radical scavenger is found in citrus fruits, but also in broccoli or peppers. Taking them via dietary supplements is less recommended because naturally occurring vitamins have better bioavailability.
- Zinc: The trace element is also known to render free radicals harmless. The timely intake of zinc can even shorten the onset of a cold. For example, oatmeal, fish, and cheese contain zinc, which works even better in combination with vitamin C.
- Ginger: The tuber is now more popular than ever when it comes to colds. Why ginger is so healthy is quickly explained, because the mustard oils it contains have an antimicrobial effect, i.e. like a natural antibiotic. Its sharpness can even relieve a stuffy nose. It also promotes blood circulation and warms the body from the inside.
- Honey: unheated it contains enzymes, flavonoids, and minerals that strengthen the immune system and have an antibacterial effect. It also has a soothing effect on coughs. Heat destroys its healing ingredients. The more expensive Manuka honey with its high methylglyoxal content has proven particularly effective. It should be taken for at least four weeks to develop its antibiotic effect.
- Onions: Instead of chicken broth, you can also make a powerful onion soup. The sulfur-containing compounds (alliins), which cause the eyes to tear, have a virus-killing effect. The flavonoid quercetin also helps.
- Tea: Drink enough liquid in the form of tea or mineral water. Chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea is particularly recommended. But special cold teas can also help. Drink at least two liters a day to speed up the healing process.
