what to feed a bad head cold

Healthline.com

1. Chicken soup...effective for reducing the symptoms of upper respiratory infections in particular...

2. Ginger...may help soothe a cough or sore throat...

3. Honey...has a variety of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties...

4. Garlic...

5. Echinacea...

6. Vitamin C...

7. Probiotics...

8. Salt water...

Learn More...

Mayoclinic.org

1. Stay hydrated...water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration...

2. Rest...your body needs to heal...

3. Soothe a sore throat...

4. Combat stuffiness...

5. Relieve pain...

6. Sip warm liquids...

7. Add moisture to the air...

Learn More...

Medicalnewstoday.com

1. Zinc...prevents rhinovirus...

2. Honey...allow it to fight some bacteria and viruses...

3. Echinacea...help prevent colds and relieve nasal symptoms...

4. Garlic...it has antibacterial and antiviral properties...

5. Menthol...

6. Vitamin D...

7. Oregano oil...

8. Reducing stress and sleeping well...

Learn More...

What are the best remedies for a head cold?

These remedies might help you feel better:

• Stay hydrated. Water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration. ...
• Rest. Your body needs rest to heal.
• Soothe a sore throat. ...
• Combat stuffiness. ...
• Relieve pain. ...
• Sip warm liquids. ...
• Try honey. ...
• Add moisture to the air. ...
• Try over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medications. ...

What foods should eat if I am sick with a cold?

Chicken soup has been recommended as a remedy for the common cold for hundreds of years - and for good reason (1). It's an easy-to-eat source of vitamins, minerals, calories and protein, which are nutrients your body needs in larger quantities while you're sick (2).

Should I eat spicy food when I have a cold?

While spicy foods can make your sinuses feel clearer, they can't cure the common cold. In fact, spicy foods are known to increase nausea and stomach pain. Be cautious when consuming spicy foods while under the weather. They may temporarily help relieve some symptoms, but the spice cannot cure your cold.

What to eat and drink when you have a cold?

Here we look at 9 of those items:

1. Candy - Sugar can cause inflammation, which in turn can compromise your body's immune system, making it harder to fight infection. ...
2. Strawberries - Strawberries are touted as a superfood so how could they be bad for colds and flu? ...
3. Milk - When you have a cold, the last thing you want to do is stimulate the production of mucus, which dairy does. ...

More items...

What is the fastest way to get rid of a head cold?

Cold remedies that workStay hydrated. Water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration. ... Rest. Your body needs rest to heal.Soothe a sore throat. ... Combat stuffiness. ... Relieve pain. ... Sip warm liquids. ... Try honey. ... Add moisture to the air.More items...

What can I drink to get rid of a head cold?

The best tips for getting over your cold are to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Water, juice, clear broth, and warm water with lemon and honey can really help loosen congestion. Tea is fine, but the decaffeinated kinds are best.

What food makes a cold feel better?

Cold, Flu, and Cough: 13 Foods to Eat When Fighting the FluPopsicles. Fight dehydration and a sore throat by sucking on ice pops. ... Turkey Sandwich. Your immune system needs adequate protein to function properly. ... Vegetable Juice. ... Chicken Soup. ... Garlic. ... Ginger. ... Hot Tea. ... Banana.More items...•

How do you get rid of a head cold in 24 hours?

While the duration of your symptoms may vary, many people wonder how to cure a cold in 24 hours or even overnight. The best way to tame a cold fast is to stay home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, gargle with salt water, take an OTC medication, and humidify the air.

What are the 5 stages of cold?

The stages of a cold include the incubation period, appearance of symptoms, remission, and recovery....Symptoms of a cold appear and usually peak within one to three days and may include:Sore throat.Runny nose.Stuffy nose.Coughing.Sneezing.Headaches.Body aches.Post-nasal drip.More items...•

Are eggs good for colds?

Selenium acts as an antioxidant, which helps relieve some symptoms of the common cold. Eggs are a protein-filled food rich in zinc and vitamin D. A 2018 clinical review suggests that vitamin D intake is associated with a lower risk of a cold, and the higher your intake, the better your immune function.

Are bananas good for colds?

Bananas are a great food to eat when you're sick. They're soft and bland but rich in nutrients and fast-acting carbs. The potassium in bananas can help replenish your electrolyte stores as well, since potassium is one of the key electrolytes your body needs ( 34 , 35 ).

Does orange juice help with a cold?

It's a myth! Because oranges are rich in vitamin C, we believe – falsely – that eating them can help cure a cold. Let us be clear: after the onset of cold symptoms, eating oranges or drinking orange juice is not an effective treatment.

How do I get rid of a cold in 5 minutes at home?

Here are 12 things you can do to relieve cold symptoms and feel better.Drink plenty of fluids. ... Get enough sleep. ... Use saline drops. ... Gargle salt water. ... Take pain relievers. ... Take a spoonful of honey. ... Use a humidifier. ... Sip warm liquids.More items...•

How do I know if I have a cold or Covid?

Both COVID-19 and the common cold are caused by viruses....Symptom check: Is it COVID-19 or a cold?Symptom or signCOVID-19ColdTirednessUsuallySometimesSneezingRarelySometimesSore throatUsuallyUsuallyRunny or stuffy noseUsuallyUsually6 more rows

How long does a common cold last?

The common cold is an infection of your nose and throat. It's easily passed to others, especially within homes, classrooms and workplaces. More than 200 different viruses can cause colds. There's no cure for a common cold, but it typically runs its course in a week to 10 days.

What is a head cold vs sinus infection?

The main difference between a sinus infection and a cold is that a sinus infection is an infection of the sinuses (which are the hollow, air-filled cavities within our skull that surround our nose) and a cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system (which is essentially our nose and throat).

Why do kids stay home from school?

Colds are the main reason why kids stay home from school and adults miss work. Most colds are mild and last about a week. But some people, especially those with a weakened immune system, can develop more serious illnesses as a complication of a head cold, such as bronchitis, a sinus infection, or pneumonia. Learn how to spot the symptoms of ...

How do you know if you have a sinus infection?

You get a sinus infection when bacteria or other germs grow in the air-filled spaces behind your cheeks, forehead, and nose. Additional symptoms include: discharge from your nose, which may be a greenish color. postnasal drip, which is mucus that runs down the back of your throat.

What is the difference between a head cold and a chest cold?

The difference in terms usually refers to the location of your symptoms. A “head cold” involves symptoms in your head, like a stuffed, runny nose and watery eyes. With a “chest cold,” you’ll have chest congestion and a cough. Viral bronchitis is sometimes called a “chest cold.”. Like colds, viruses also cause viral bronchitis.

How to get rid of rebound stuffiness?

Using decongestant sprays for longer than three days can lead to rebound stuffiness. Use a vaporizer or humidifier in your room while you sleep to ease congestion. Take a pain reliever. For mild aches, you can try an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever like acetaminophen ( Tylenol) or ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin ).

How do you get the virus?

The virus can get into your body when you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. You’re more likely to catch a cold if you have a weakened immune system or you smoke. Colds spread more in the fall and winter months than in the spring and summer.

How long does it take for a cold to clear up?

Usually colds clear up within a week to 10 days. Less often, a cold can develop into a more serious infection, like pneumonia or bronchitis. If your symptoms continue for more than 10 days, or if they are getting worse, see your doctor.

Why don't antibiotics work?

That’s why antibiotics won’t work to treat a cold. Learn more: Common cold causes ». You catch a cold when someone who’s infected sneezes or coughs, and sprays droplets containing the virus into the air. Another way to get sick is by touching surfaces, like doorknobs, phones, or toys, that have the virus on them.

How to help a child with a sore throat?

Run a warm bath or have them lie on a heating pad. Put a dab of petroleum jelly under the nose to soothe raw skin. Run a humidifier in their room to increase moisture. For children over 6, hard candy or cough drops relieve sore throat. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids.

What is the best medicine for a cold?

Medication. Taking an acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) will help reduce your fever and relieve muscle aches. Many medical professionals suggest that you don’t use aspirin to relieve head cold symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medicines will help reduce cough and congestion.

What is the common cold in children?

Remedies for Children. A head cold, also known as the common cold or head congestion, is a viral nose and throat infection. It’s often a mild sickness that can be treated at home. The most common symptoms of a head cold include: ●A fever of 100 degrees F or higher. ●Chills (feeling cold without a cause)

What to do if your child has a cold?

Once you’ve identified the cause, you can start treating them for a head cold. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids. Chicken soup is a comforting way to give your child fluids.

How much sleep do you need to recover from a head cold?

Your body needs plenty of rest to recover from a head cold. Make sure you get at least eight hours of sleep if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of a head cold.

Why is it so hard to see a child with a head cold?

Head cold symptoms can last long in children, and it may be difficult to see their symptoms because they may not be able to describe what they’re feeling.

Can a head cold be treated with antibiotics?

Remedies and Treatments for a Head Cold. These remedies won’t make your cold go away, but they will ease your symptoms. Because it’s a virus, a head cold can’t be treated by antibiotics. Here are some remedies that you can use to relieve your head cold symptoms:

How to get rid of a cold?

Don’t share your glasses, utensils, towels and other personal items with other people. Eat a well-balanced diet, get seven to nine hours of sleep nightly, exercise and manage stress to boost your immunity. It’s important to blow your nose regularly when you have a cold.

What is the best medicine for a cold?

Garlic. To deal with the symptoms of a head cold, garlic is very effective. It contains the compound allicin, which has antiviral properties that will fight the rhinovirus and certain other viruses. This means it can help kill the virus responsible for your head cold.

How to get rid of congestion in nasal passages?

Humidifier. A humidifier helps add moisture to the air, which may ease nasal congestion. Once the congestion is gone, your headache will automatically get better. On the other hand, breathing dry air can irritate the inflamed nasal passages even more and cause a more severe headache.

How to reduce nasal pressure?

Saline Nasal Irrigation. Using a saline solution for nasal irrigation is another effective way to reduce nasal pressure, which in turn will lessen the headache as well as other symptoms of a head cold. A saline solution will thin the mucus to help flush it out of the nasal passages.

What does it mean when you have a headache and a cold?

July 4, 2019. 4. A head cold is nothing but a common cold in which the symptoms are more focused around the head and in the sinuses. In the case of a head cold, along with other common cold or flu symptoms like a runny and stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, chills and fever, you will also have a headache. The reason you get a headache ...

How to get rid of a swollen nose?

Fill one bowl with hot water and another bowl with cold water. Put a washcloth in the hot water and wring out the excess water. Place the washcloth on the area where you feel pain as well as on your nose for about 3 minutes.

How to get rid of mucus in a swollen ear?

Water, especially lukewarm water, is highly effectively. Along with water, drinking hot fluids will help. Enjoy a hot cup of herbal tea or drink broth to thin out the mucus. Even eating fruits rich in water content like watermelon, cucumbers and oranges will help.

Chicken Potpie Soup

My grandmother hand-wrote a cookbook; she created this amazing pie crust, and I added the delicious soup for it. —Karen LeMay, Seabrook, Texas

Marinated Oranges

This flavorful fruit was actually the topping in a cake recipe. But I didn't want all the calories or fat from the cake—and the oranges are a good dessert all by themselves! The dash of vanilla extract brings out the fruit's sweetness. —Carol Poindexter, Norridge, Illinois

Rosemary Roasted Baby Carrots

Baby carrots go over big when seasoned with the subtle taste of rosemary. I like to sprinkle raisins on top for a combination of sweet and savory. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho

Lemon Thyme Green Tea

Fresh sprigs of lemon thyme make this citrusy tea so refreshing—it’s like sipping summer from a cup. My family and I enjoy it so much that it’s a staple on our southern front porch.—Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia

Cold-Day Chicken Noodle Soup

When I was sick, my mom would make me this heartwarming chicken noodle soup. It was soothing when I had a cold, but this soup is a bowlful of comfort on any chilly day. —Anthony Graham, Ottawa, lllinois

Garlic-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Sauce

Don’t be afraid to bring out the roasted Brussels sprouts. Mellowed with mustard sauce, they may just delight even the most skeptical folks. —Becky Walch, Orland, California

Hot Apple Cider

In this recipe, brown sugar and spices add extra flavor to already delicious apple cider. —Marlys Benning, Wellsburg, Iowa

What are some good foods to boost your immune system?

Green veggies provide anti-inflammatory antioxidants, as well as key nutrients known to help the immune system function, including vitamins A and C and folate. They also provide bioactive compounds that provide a chemical signal that optimizes immunity in the gut, the location of 70-80% of immune cells. Saute veggies in EVOO along with garlic, turmeric, and black pepper, or add them to soup. You can also blend leafy greens, like kale or spinach, into a smoothie.

What is the best way to use turmeric?

Just be sure to combine turmeric with black pepper, which significantly ups curcumin bioavailability . Sprinkle a turmeric black pepper combo onto a smoothie, soup, broth, or cooked veggies.

Why is soup good for your nose?

That’s important, because catching a cold triggers an inflammatory response in your upper respiratory tract, which contributes to symptoms like a stuffy nose.

How to get rid of cough and congestion?

Capsaicin, the compound that gives spicy peppers their heat, may also help suppress a cough. Add a pinch of ground cayenne to your tea, soup, or broth.

What are some good foods to help with inflammation?

Walnuts. In addition to being one of the top anti-inflammatory foods, walnuts contain several nutrients that play a role in supporting the immune system, including vitamins E and B6, copper, and folate. Walnuts have also been shown in research to reduce psychological stress.

What to do if you don't eat chicken broth?

If you don’t eat chicken, opt for vegetable broth, flavored with add-ins like garlic, ginger, cayenne, turmeric, and black pepper.

What is the best food for the digestive system?

Bananas. Bananas are one of the easiest foods on the digestive system and remain one of the few appealing foods when appetite is diminished due to illness. They also raise blood sugar and provide energy while delivering key nutrients that help support the immune system, including vitamins C and B6, copper, and folate.

How to get rid of sinuses and cold?

Herbal teas. When experiencing cold and flu symptoms, it is important to stay hydrated. Herbal teas are refreshing, and breathing in their steam can help to clear mucus from the sinuses. Adding ground turmeric to a cup of hot water may help to relieve a sore throat.

What foods help with sinus congestion?

Colds and flu. Herbal teas provide hydration, and breathing in their steam can help to clear mucus from the sinuses. A blocked nose, a cough, and a sore throat are common symptoms of colds and flu. The following foods can help to ease congestion and inflammation and boost the immune system. 1.

How to reduce nausea and vomiting?

suggests that ginger could help to reduce the effects of nausea and vomiting, although more studies are required to confirm these findings. A person can make ginger tea by adding 1–2 teaspoons of fresh ginger to a cup of hot water.

What is the best diet for diarrhea?

2. BRAT foods. BRAT stands for: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. These foods are bland and gentle on the stomach. The diet is rich in starch and contains little fiber, which can have a binding effect on loose stools and speed up recovery from diarrhea.

Why is it important to stay hydrated when you are sick?

Here’s our process. When a person is sick, they may find it difficult to develop an appetite. However, it is important to receive nourishment and stay hydrated, especially when feeling unwell. Different types of food can combat different types of illness.

What is the difference between processed foods and processed grains?

Processed foods tend to be high in fats and salt, and low in fiber. Fats are difficult to digest, while salt decreases levels of moisture in stools. Processed grains, such as white bread and white rice, have been stripped of the bran and germ. These are the parts that provide the highest levels of fiber.

What fruits help with coughing?

The results were limited, however, as most studies in the review only looked at 1-night acute coughs. 3. Citrus fruits and berries. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, contain high levels of flavonoids and vitamin C. These decrease inflammation and boost immunity, which may help to fight a fever.

How to avoid colds?

You’ve heard it before: To avoid colds, get plenty of vitamin C. Truth is, it won’t keep most of us from catching one. (It may help if you’re around people who get sick often, like at a day care.) But if you get a lot of it right before you notice symptoms, it may make you feel better and help you get rid of a cold faster. Oranges, lemons, limes -- they’re all sources of vitamin C and can be tasty, too.

What to drink when you have a cold?

Ginger. A cup of fresh, hot ginger tea may seem to be just the thing you need when you’re nursing a cold. It helps lclear congestion and soothe your throat. And some studies show this spicy root may help prevent the common cold by blocking the virus.

What are some foods that help with the common cold?

Kale, broccoli, cranberries, green tea, red onions, blueberries: What do these have in common? All have an antioxidant called quercetin that may help you fight the common cold. The research here is pretty new, but they may be on to something.

What foods can help you get rid of a cold faster?

But if you get a lot of it right before you notice symptoms, it may make you feel better and help you get rid of a cold faster. Oranges, lemons, limes -- they’re all sources of vitamin C and can be tasty, too. Swipe to advance.

Can you drink coffee with a cold?

You’re better off avoiding these. You need lots of liquids when you have a cold, but caffeine and alcohol are no-nos because they can dry you out. Of course, if you get a raging withdrawal headache without your morning coffee, by all means, have a small cup of joe. Or try a little caffeinated tea instead.

Does garlic help with colds?

Scientists think garlic has some things in it that may fight the common cold. There is also some evidence that garlic may prevent colds, but more studies are still needed. Nevertheless, it's a good excuse to toss in a few extra cloves.

Can chili peppers help with colds?

They won't help you kick your cold, but chili peppers can clear out your nasal passages, and that can make you feel better. They have something called capsaicin, which studies show may help with your stuffy head.