what to feed body when having a flu

10 Foods to Eat When You Have the Flu

• Ice Pops. They can soothe your throat when it's sore, swollen, or dry. They also keep you hydrated, which is key when...
• Turkey Sandwich. It has lean protein, a key part of a healthy diet. And although you may not feel like it, eating helps...
• Vegetable Juice. Since you may not feel up to making and eating a salad while you recover...

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.

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.

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 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.

Why is it important to have a strong immune system?

A strong immune system can prevent illness and help you bounce back sooner. “There’s no doubt that a healthy diet improves your immunity to illness,” Dr. Calabrese says. “What you put in your body is important for your overall health, including your immune system.”. Since your immune system is your body’s defense against invaders like the flu, ...

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.

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.

Does chicken soup help with the flu?

One lab study suggested that chicken soup has properties that can ease flu symptoms in your chest and head. A well-nourished immune system is better able to fight infections. Once you recover from flu, fill your diet with a variety of food, colorful fruits and vegetables, and legumes.

Hydration is key

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.

Can any foods help with the flu?

It’s normal to have a smaller appetite when sick, but it’s still important to focus on getting good nutrition from the right foods. While there isn’t strong research to support a specific food that can fight the flu virus itself, there are many nutrients in foods that may help boost the immune system or help with symptoms of the flu.

Foods to avoid when you have the flu

Some foods can make symptoms of the flu worse or make it more difficult to recover. Other foods are worth avoiding when you’re not feeling well simply because they are detrimental to your overall health.

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.

The bottom line

Eating nutritious foods and staying hydrated may help relieve symptoms of the flu. However, it’s still important to see a trusted healthcare provider if you think you have the flu. Practicing good hygiene and getting the flu vaccine are other important steps you can take to help prevent getting or spreading the flu to others.

How to help a person with the flu?

Below are some fluids that may be particularly helpful: Water: The kidneys use water to flush waste products from the body. Drinking plenty of water may help speed recovery.

How to stop the flu from spreading?

Avoiding contact with other people can help keep the flu from spreading. People who smoke should avoid it while they have the flu. Smoking can aggravate flu symptoms and delay recovery. Taking medicine such as acetaminophen can help relieve a fever and ease aches and pains.

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 flu?

The flu is a collective term that refers to infection with an influenza virus. Eating nourishing food and drinking plenty of fluids can provide essential nutrients and keep the body hydrated, which may help speed recovery from the flu. In this article, we describe which foods may help or harm a person who has the flu, ...

What foods can you avoid with the flu?

Certain foods and drinks may slow recovery from the flu, including: Alcohol: Alcohol dehydrates the body and reduces the function of the immune system. Processed foods: These can be high in salt, which can dehydrate the body, and sugar, which can increase inflammation.

What fruits and vegetables have the highest levels of vitamin C?

Those with the highest levels of vitamin C include: sweet or hot peppers of any color. oranges and orange juice. 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.

Does drinking alcohol help with the flu?

Summary. Certain nourishing foods and drinks may aid recovery from the flu — by supporting the immune system or helping to fight inflammation, for example. Other foods and drinks may slow recovery. Dairy and greasy foods may increase the risk of nausea and be difficult to digest, while alcohol can cause dehydration.

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 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 fruit is good for GI dehydration?

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. 12.

What are some good sources of vitamin C?

Melons are also a good source of vitamin C,” he says. 12. Eggs: Hertzler notes that just one egg provides about 7 grams of high-quality protein, along with 5 grams of fat and iron, vitamins, minerals and carotenoids to support your health.

What is the best vitamin for white blood cells?

Citrus fruits: According to Dr. Oz, vitamin C helps encourage the production of white blood cells, which are important for helping protect the body against infection. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits can be a great source of this nutrient. 4.

What fats help with inflammation?

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.

Does garlic help with flu?

Thus, it can help you to heal from the flu and the bad breath it gives off will also prevent people from wanting to get too close and catch what you have. “Many cultures make tea with raw garlic at the first signs of flu,” says Ascher. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.

Does oatmeal help with immune system?

Certain types of oatmeal are fortified with vitamin D, which helps activate immune cells. Adding milk also provides some vitamin D, and if you top off your oatmeal with your favorite berries, you will add antioxidants. Crupain notes that as oatmeal is prepared with water, it will also provide some hydration benefits.

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 should I do when I'm sick?

What should I do while I’m sick? Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. If you must leave home, for example to get medical care, wear a facemask if you have one, or cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Wash your hands often to keep from spreading flu to others.

Can the flu cause death?

Influenza (flu) can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death . Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms: Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Can you take Aspirin with the flu?

CDC also recommends that children and teenagers (anyone aged 18 years and younger) who have flu or are suspected to have flu should not be given Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or any salicylate containing products (e.g. Pepto Bismol); this can cause a rare, very serious complication called Reye’s syndrome.