what to feed body whem having a flu

Can any foods help with the flu?

1. Broth. Broth has many benefits for people with the flu. It helps keep you hydrated and warm broth can also help...
2. Probiotic-rich foods. Probiotics can benefit your digestive tract and strengthen your immune system, but the research...
3. Chicken soup. Chicken soup isn’t just for the soul. Some research shows that chicken soup has...

Full Answer

What can you eat when you have the stomach flu?

Some options are:

• water
• broth
• decaffeinated teas
• clear fruit juices, such as apple, cranberry, and grape juice
• sports drinks
• coconut water
• oral rehydration solutions, such as Pedialyte

When do foods help fight the flu?

Lifestyle and home remedies

• Drink plenty of liquids. Choose water, juice and warm soups to prevent dehydration. ...
• Try chicken soup. It's not just good for the soul. ...
• Consider pain relievers. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), to combat the achiness associated with influenza.

What to do when you catch the flu?

You should take your child to the doctor—and possibly the emergency room—if your child:

• Is not drinking enough fluids
• Develops fever with rash
• Has difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
• Develops a bluish skin color
• Doesn’t wake up
• Has extreme irritability
• Recovery from symptoms but they return with fever and a bad cough

Can I eat oatmeal when I have the flu?

Oatmeal is a good source of fiber that may help with digestive issues that cause an upset stomach. Digestive discomfort can arise from a number of issues, such as stomach flu, indigestion or food intolerance. Often a warm, creamy bowl of oatmeal for upset stomach is the perfect remedy to make you feel better.

What should not eat during flu?

The flu often makes consuming food difficult, as flu symptoms can cause nausea or stomach symptoms....Foods to avoid when you have the fluCaffeinated drinks and alcohol. ... Greasy foods. ... Hard to digest grains. ... Sugary food or drinks.

How can I help my body fight the flu?

In this ArticleStay home and get plenty of rest.Drink plenty of fluids.Treat aches and fever.Take care of your cough.Sit in a steamy bathroom.Run the humidifier.Try a lozenge.Get salty.More items...•

What kills the flu virus?

Thankfully, killing influenza can be achieved by wiping with simple detergents, diluted bleach, or hydrogen peroxide. If chemicals are not desired, flu also dies in the presence of steam, a fact known for well more than 100 years.

Does vitamin C help with flu?

In studies in which people took vitamin C only after they got a cold, vitamin C did not improve their symptoms. A note about safety: Vitamin C is generally considered safe; however, high doses can cause digestive disturbances such as diarrhea and nausea. Echinacea has not been proven to help prevent or treat colds.

What are 5 ways to fight the flu?

5 Ways to Fight the FluGet the flu vaccine. It's the best way to protect yourself against the flu. ... Wash your hands well and often. ... Steer clear of someone who is sick (coughing, sneezing, etc.). ... Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow — not into your hands. ... Stay home if you have the flu.

Can your body fight off flu?

Your body makes proteins called antibodies that destroy abnormal or foreign cells. They help fend off common ailments like the flu or a cold.

How many days does the flu last?

The flu typically lasts three to seven days, according to the CDC. Serious complications of the flu, such as pneumonia, can take longer to recover from. Some symptoms, such as a cough, can persist for more than two weeks.

How long does it take to get over flu?

Flu symptoms, including fever, should go away after about 5 days, but you may still have a cough and feel weak a few days longer. All your symptoms should be gone within 1 to 2 weeks.

What is the best diet for a sick person?

You may remember Mom’s long-ago advice that when you’re sick, you should follow the BRAT Diet, which stands for bananas, (white) rice, apples and toast – low-fiber foods that will soothe your stomach.

How to beat the flu?

A healthy diet can boost your immune system. The misery of the flu will have anyone scrounging the internet for home remedies. Maybe some chicken soup and hot tea are just what you need to beat the virus into submission.

What to do when you're sick and can't stand salad?

If you can’t stand the idea of scarfing a salad while sick, add a leafy green to your chicken soup or other cozy stew to reap the benefits in a slightly more flu-friendly form.

What are the three foods that are associated with the immune system?

Ginger, cayenne and turmeric are associated with a number of cozy, comforting foods, too, and each has various health properties. “Among a variety of different cultures, they’re a big part of our immune repertoire,” Dr. Vyas says.

What are some good foods to eat to reduce bloating?

Processed meats like hot dogs and bacon. Red meat. Sugar and desserts. Processed, fried and fast foods. White or refined breads and grains. It might seem overwhelming to make big changes to your diet, but you don’t have to overhaul everything right away. Start making changes in your diet gradually.

How to help your immune system?

Follow an anti-inflammatory diet. The typical American diet is full of foods that produce inflammation. And when the body has too much inflammation, the immune system struggles. Lower inflammation and help your immune system by changing the type of fats you eat. Advertising Policy.

What is the Mediterranean diet?

“I’m a big fan of the Mediterranean diet,” says Dr. Calabrese. “It’s a great diet for immune health.”. Advertising Policy. The Mediterranean diet refers to traditional eating patterns of people who live near the Mediterranean Sea.

What foods help fight the flu?

Your body uses it to build strength and keep what you already have. Lean meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dairy, eggs, nuts, and seeds are good sources.

What foods help the immune system?

Minerals like selenium and zinc also keep your immune system going strong. These minerals are found in protein -rich foods like beans, nuts, meat, and poultry.

What Other Nutrients Fight Infection?

You’ll find this powerful antioxidant in the red, pulpy area of a watermelon near the rind. It’s also in kale, collard greens, broccoli, and cabbage.

How to get rid of a swollen throat?

Warm decaf tea with honey can coat and soothe your throat. Warm drinks are better than cold ones for opening congested airways. Bland foods -- like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce -- are good. Experts say you can go back to a normal diet within 24 hours if you feel like it.

How to keep your tummy from getting upset?

If your tummy is upset or if you have diarrhea, stick with bland foods. Sip clear drinks to keep your fluids up. You can try chipped ice, juices, sports drinks , ginger ale , clear broths , gelatin, and ice pops. Start with small amounts, like 4 to 8 ounces at a time for adults and 1 ounce or less at a time for children.

What vitamins are good for pregnant women?

Pregnant and nursing women need more. Foods that have it provide nutrients like vitamins B6 and B12, both of which keep your immune system working like it should. Vitamin B6 comes in protein-rich foods like turkey and beans, as well as potatoes, spinach, and enriched cereal grains.

Do Flavonoids Help?

Flavonoids include about 4,000 compounds that are responsible for the colors of fruits and flowers. Research shows that flavonoids found in the soft white skin of citrus fruits -- like grapefruit, oranges, lemons, and limes -- may boost your immune system. Many other fruits have anti-inflammatory properties, too.

How to keep the flu from spreading?

Avoiding contact with other people can help keep the flu from spreading.

What is the best vitamin for the immune system?

Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C help support the immune system. Those with the highest levels of vitamin C include:

Why are leafy greens good for you?

Leafy green vegetables may also have antibacterial properties and anti-inflammatory effects. As a result, eating leafy greens may help the body heal from the flu. Leafy greens can be an easy addition to soups or stews.

What is the term for an infection with an influenza virus?

The flu is a collective term that refers to infection with an influenza virus.

What is the best drink to help with nausea?

Hot water with honey, lemon, and ginger: The ginger in this soothing drink may reduce nausea.

What are some substitutes for live bacteria?

Other fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, kombucha, and plant-based yogurts, are excellent substitutes that also contain live bacteria.

Which fruits and vegetables have flavonoids?

grapefruit. kiwifruit. Many fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C are also excellent sources of flavonoids, which are compounds that can provide a wide range of health benefits. For example, flavonoids may help reduce the risk.

What foods can help with nausea and vomiting?

Bland foods can help treat symptoms of nausea and vomiting that can occur with the flu. Bland foods are soft, low in fiber, and not spicy. These foods are easily digested and well-tolerated while still providing your body with necessary carbohydrates for energy. Examples include:

How to get your immune system to work?

Eating the right foods and avoiding things like alcohol and added sugars may help you feel better sooner and may support your immune system.

What else can I do to feel better?

The best way to treat the flu is to prevent it. Flu vaccines are an essential part of this prevention. To help prevent or reduce flu symptoms, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months gets vaccinated by the end of October. When it comes to COVID-19, the CDC recommends everyone over 12 years be vaccinated. Other tips for preventing the flu include:

What is the best way to hydrate your body?

Drinking plenty of water is best, but other fluids like broth, tea, and low-sugar electrolyte drinks can also help. Some foods can also help with hydration, such as celery, watermelon, cabbage, and cooked squash.

Can probiotics be taken as a supplement?

Probiotics can be taken as a supplement — though these aren’t rigor ously monitored for quality. They are also found in fermented beverages such as kombucha and foods like yogurt with live and active cultures, miso, and kimchi.

Does broth help with the flu?

Broth has many benefits for people with the flu. It helps keep you hydrated and warm broth can also help soothe a sore throat and relieve congestion.

Is it bad to drink fluids with the flu?

Dehydration is common while having the flu and can be dangerous if not treated. Drinking enough fluids can help improve symptoms of congestion by releasing mucus from your nose, especially when the fluids are warm. It’s important to start drinking plenty of fluids at the first signs and symptoms of illness.

What to eat when recovering from the flu?

Since you may not feel up to making and eating a salad while you recover from the flu, try a glass of low-sodium vegetable juice instead. You'll load up on antioxidants that boost the immune system, your body's defense against germs.

What is the best food to eat when you have a stomach problem?

Toast or crackers are convenient foods when you're fighting illness. They pair well with chicken noodle soup, and their satisfying crunch can take the edge off hunger when your stomach can’t handle much.

How to get rid of a stuffy nose?

Drink green, oolong, and black tea to take in some antioxidants. Breathe in the steam to help clear your stuffy nose. Add a spoonful of honey and a squeeze of lemon to soothe your sore throat. If caffeine bothers you, try decaf or herbal versions instead.

What are some good ways to soothe a sore throat?

Ice Pops. They can soothe your throat when it's sore, swollen, or dry. They also keep you hydrated, which is key when you fight the flu. Getting enough fluids keeps your mucus thin and eases congestion. Look for ice pops made from 100% fruit juice to make sure you get nutrients and not sugar water. You can also make your own frozen juice bars.

Does chicken soup help with nose?

Chicken Soup. It helps you get the fluids you need and it's nourishing, too. Some scientific evidence suggests that it may help with healing. Hot chicken soup may also improve the way tiny hair-like parts in the passages of your nose protect your body from bacteria and viruses, but more research is needed. 5 / 11.

Is turkey sandwich healthy?

Turkey Sandwich. It has lean protein, a key part of a healthy diet. And although you may not feel like it, eating helps give your body energy to fight illness. Add cranberry sauce for a spike of flavor and comfort-food taste. 3 / 11.

Can you add ginger ale to food?

Some studies suggest it fights inflammation, too. You can add it to other foods, either freshly grated or as a powder. Another option: Have a drink of flat ginger ale. 7 / 11.

What foods help you recover from the flu?

It’s rich in protein and vitamin B too, which may also help you recover fully from the flu. Other good sources of zinc are oysters and shrimp, although shellfish may not be as appetizing—or as easy to get—when you’re home sick. RELATED: 8 Hearty Beef Stews.

What to drink when you have the flu?

Electrolyte beverages. “Staying hydrated is the most important thing when you have the flu, especially if you’re running a fever and sweating, or you’re having trouble keeping food down,” says Denver-based nutritionist Jessica Crandall, RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

What to eat when sick?

Beef. Beef stew with carro ts in blue bowl. Credit: OlgaMiltsova/Getty Images. Another nutrient you want to get plenty of while you’re sick is zinc: Studies show that the mineral helps fight infection by regulating the immune system and that taking zinc supplements may reduce the duration of the common cold.

What to do when you have the flu?

Making sure you’re drinking water is the simplest solution, she says, but adding an electrolyte-rich sports drink or coconut water to your rotation can help guarantee you’re rep lenishing sodium and potass ium as well as fluids.

Does orange juice help with colds?

You can also drink your antioxidants: Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C, which some studies suggest may help lessen the duration of colds and flu. But taking in too much might actually make you feel worse: “Your body can only absorb so much vitamin C at once, and if you have too much it can cause gastrointestinal issues,” says Crandall.

Does ginger help with nausea?

Foods or drinks made with ginger may also relieve stomach problems associated with the flu, says Zelig. Research suggests the root is anti-inflammatory and is effective against nausea —although most studies have involved motion sickness or pregnancy, not the flu.

What is the best food to eat when you have the flu?

It soothes your sore throat and it has anti viral properties in it.”. 20. Oatmeal: “ Bland foods are a good way to ease into eating if you have the flu, especially after you’re past any bouts of nausea and vomiting, and oatmeal should be at the top of your list,” says Hertzler.

What to eat when you have the stomach flu?

Remember this acronym when recovering from a bout of stomach flu: BRAT: banana, rice, applesauce, toast. Plain pasta noodles and plain potatoes are excellent options as well. These are very easy to digest foods that will provide you with some electrolytes like potassium, easy to digest carbohydrates and a small amount of protein. Avoid foods that are spicy, fatty, fibrous (such as raw vegetables, coarse grains and meats), and avoid dairy products.”

What are some good foods to eat to get zinc?

8. Trail mix: Nuts and seeds are high in zinc, especially cashews, walnuts, pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds. “I like the idea of mixing those three together and eating them like a trail mix,” Crupain says. You can also sprinkle them into oatmeal or add a handful to yogurt.

What fruit should I eat to avoid the flu?

Thus, Dr. Oz recommends water-heavy fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe or any other melon. “Any GI distress or fever is going to cause dehydration. Melons are also a good source of vitamin C,” he says.

What fruits have anthocyanins?

5. Blueberries: These, per Ascher, who adds that elderberry extract also falls into this category, are high in anthocyanins. “Not only does this give these fruits a shiny blue tint, but also hold antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune boosting potential.”

What is the best fat to reduce inflammation?

24. Omega-3s: “Omega-3 fat reduce inflammation in the body and viruses cause inflammation in the body,” says Dr. Oz. So Omega-3’s, he explains, counteract the side effect of the virus, which is produced as your body responds to fight it off. “These come from fish and oily fish in particular, cold water fish. Vegetarian sources include flaxseed, olive oil, and walnuts,” he says.

What is the best medicine for nausea?

18. Ginger: This, says wellness/nutrition expert Dr. Olivia Audrey, helps with nausea as well as powerful phytochemicals that reduce inflammation. Rebecca Shenkman, director of the MacDonald Center for Obesity Prevention and Education at Villanova University says to “try putting a few slices of raw ginger root in boiling water if you experience nausea or vomiting when you have the flu.”

What to eat when you have the flu?

When you have little knowledge about what to eat when you have the flu, go for almonds. They are loaded with immune-boosting antioxidant vitamin E. With enough Vitamin-E in your system, you will have fewer chances of catching colds and developing other common respiratory infections. Also, include sunflower seeds, fortified cereals, wheat germ, and turnip greens in your diet to get enough of Vitamin-E.

What is the best food to eat when you have the flu?

These white blood cells cause nasal congestion. 12. Ginger. Ginger is yet another important entry on the list of what to eat when you have the flu.Ginger serves as an effective remedy to help treat diarrhea, stomach aches, and nausea.

Why do oysters help the immune system?

Oysters. Your immune system needs zinc to function properly because it signals white blood cells to attack viruses and bacteria like flu or cold. Oysters are a great source of zinc–you will get your minimum daily requirement of zinc from one medium oyster. 8.

How long do you have to be in bed for the flu?

What to Eat When You Have the Flu. Cold and flu infections are common but can put you in bed for several weeks. You usually do not need any treatment for both cold and flu infections–your immune system eliminates the infection in a couple of weeks. However, you can accelerate recovery by eating the right type of food.

What foods can you eat when you have a cold?

10. Sweet Potato. You can eat sweet potato when you have a flu or cold because it contains beta-carotene that improves your immune system. It also plays a role in neutralizing harmful toxins. You can also try other sources of beta-carotene, such as squash, carrots, egg yolks, pumpkin, and cantaloupe. 11.

What are some good foods to help with colds?

In other words, mushrooms improve your overall immunity and help you clear infections easily. 3. Salmon. Research shows that people with low vitamin D levels are 40 % more likely to catch cold and flu. One of the best ways to improve your vitamin D intake is to eat salmon.

Why do you have to eat chicken soup when you have the flu?

Enjoy some hot chicken soup when you have flu because it increases the temperature in your throat and nose , providing an inhospitable environment for viruses. Moreover, it will thin out mucus and make it easier for you to blow it out. Chicken soup may also limit the production of white blood cells that your body produces in huge numbers when you have a cold. These white blood cells cause nasal congestion.

What foods help with the flu?

Here are ten of the best foods that you can add to your menu to help fight the flu: 1. Butternut Squash.

What is the best food for the flu?

Garlic. Not only can you ward off vampires this Halloween, but garlic will also protect you from the common cold and is one of the best foods for the flu. Garlic, along with many other ingredients found on this list, is packed full of antioxidants which can stimulate your immune system to work harder.

How to get rid of sore throat from drinking broth?

Drinking clear beverages like water, juice, or hot tea is essential for staying hydrated when sick, but broth is another great option. It not only provides a soothing effect for sore throats, but it also contains little fiber content so your body doesn't need to work to digest it. Choose broth instead of stock because it has seasonings that make it more flavorful to sip on its own. Broth is also higher in sodium, which is a benefit in this case since salt helps to keep your system hydrated when fighting off the flu, cold, or other viruses.

What fruits can you eat to make you sick?

5. Oranges. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes contain high amounts of vitamin C, which can shorten the time you're sick if eaten frequently.

What are some good foods to reduce cholesterol?

In addition to its flu-fighting vitamins, garlic can also help reduce cholesterol levels and help improve heart health. 9. Leafy Greens. It's time to expand your menu to include other types of leafy greens besides the familiar options like kale and spinach.

When to add flu foods to menu?

If you're planning to incorporate these healthy, flu-fighting foods into your restaurant's menu, add them in September or October. This way, your customers' and employees' immune systems have time to strengthen before the season begins.

Does ginger help with nausea?

If you find yourself trying to treat the common flu symptoms of nausea and body aches, ginger may be the relief you need. Ginger root is often used to reduce nausea in pregnant women, but its anti-inflammatory benefits can also help those who have a cold or the flu. It's also believed that ginger is a natural pain reliever, which can contribute to easing the aches and pains many experience with the flu.