what to feed someone with flu

What foods are good for the flu?

What Foods Should You Eat When You Have the Flu?

• Start with chicken soup. What should you eat when you have a cold or flu? ...
• Eat watery fruits and vegetables. ...
• Yogurt is full of protein. ...
• Bananas are easy on digestion. ...
• Peppermint tea, please! ...
• Drink lots of fluids. ...
• Feed Your Cold, Starve Your Flu. ...
• Get plenty of rest. ...

Which fruits can treat flu?

The following fruits can help in curing flu:

• Banana: It is a rich source of vitamin B6 and helps in reducing fatigue, depression, and insomnia. ...
• Apples: These are an excellent source of antioxidants and are loaded with protective flavonoids. ...
• Papaya: As papaya is a rich source of vitamin C it helps in keeping the flu and cold at bay. ...
• Answer requested by

What is the best drink for the flu?

The Best Drinks to Fight the Flu

• Black Tea. According to a 2003 study, black tea is a real immunity booster. ...
• Chicken Broth. Your grandma was onto something. ...
• Ginger Tea. Many people will reach for a can of ginger ale when flu symptoms start, and this spice is the reason why.
• Ice Pops and Ice Cubes. ...
• Juices or Smoothies. ...
• Lemon and Honey Tea. ...
• Water. ...
• Wine. ...

What can you eat if you got the flu?

• Water is the best thing you can take to help you get over the flu.
• Some of the best foods you can eat when you have the flu are broth, leafy greens, fruits high in vitamin C, and oatmeal.
• Yogurt is abundant in vitamins that can help decrease intestinal malfunction, which might help flu sufferers who are experiencing nausea or vomiting.

More items...

What fruits can you eat to help with the flu?

Consider snacking on vitamin C–rich fruits while you have the flu. Some fruits high in vitamin C include strawberries, tomatoes, and citrus fruits. 6. Leafy greens . Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens can also help boost your immune system when you have the flu.

What is the best food for a sick person?

Oatmeal. When you’re sick, a hot bowl of oatmeal can be a soothing, nutritious food choice. Oatmeal, like other whole grains, is also a natural source of immune-boosting vitamin E. It also contains polyphenol antioxidants as well as immune-strengthening beta-glucan fiber.

What are some good foods to boost your immune system?

It’s best to eat these immune-boosting foods throughout the duration of your illness. 7. Broccoli.

How long does it take to get over the flu?

While the worst of the symptoms may be gone after five days, it can take one to two weeks to get over the flu entirely. Your recovery may take even longer if you develop a secondary infection from the flu.

What is the best medicine for a fever in a baby?

You can also: Administer an over-the-counter pain reliever for aches and fever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB). Just be sure to check the dosage amount, and choose a baby or child version if appropriate for your child’s age and weight.

What is the purpose of food in the body?

Food is what gives your body the energy and nutrients it needs to function . Such effects are equally vital when you have the flu. Still, it’s all about eating the right foods for your condition.

Can you eat chicken soup with the flu?

You can eat chicken soup throughout the duration of the flu to help keep you hydrated and satiated; just be sure to watch the salt content. 3. Garlic. While you might think of garlic as a food-flavoring agent, it’s actually been used in alternative medicine for a variety of ailments for centuries. One study.

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 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.

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.

Is it bad to eat dairy after the flu?

Anyone who is feeling nauseous or who experiences increased mucus production after eating dairy should avoid it until flu symptoms resolve. Food with rough edges: Crackers and other crispy foods can scratch the throat and worsen any soreness.

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 to do if you get the flu?

Steps to take if you get the flu 1 If you get very sick, are pregnant, or are 65 years or older, or are otherwise at high risk of flu-related complications, call your doctor. You might need antiviral drugs to treat flu. 2 Stay at home and rest. 3 Avoid close contact with well people in your house so you won’t make them sick. 4 Drink plenty of water and other clear liquids to prevent fluid loss (dehydration).

How to get rid of a sick person?

Wash your hands often and right way. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Make sure to wash your hands after touching the sick person. Wash after handling their tissues or laundry.

How to avoid being sick?

Avoid being face to face with the sick person. If possible, it is best to spend the least amount of time in close contact with a sick person. When holding sick children, place their chin on your shoulder so they will not cough in your face. Wash your hands often and right way.

What to do if you get sick and are pregnant?

If you get very sick, are pregnant, or are 65 years or older, or are otherwise at high risk of flu-related complications, call your doctor. You might need antiviral drugs to treat flu. Stay at home and rest. Avoid close contact with well people in your house so you won’t make them sick.

What is the best food for a fever?

Chicken Soup. "A staple food for anyone who has a fever, chicken soup clears our nasal passages (by thinning mucous) when we have congestion, helps us keep warm when we have the shivers and offers some amino acids that help fight the flu ," Dr. Jose says. Advertisement.

What to put on a spice rack for fever?

Herbs and Spices. Surprisingly, your spice rack may house a number of natural fever remedies and immune-boosters. Garlic, for example, contains allicin, which is an antibacterial compound that can help reduce inflammation and possibly fight a fever, Dr. Jose says.

What foods cause bloating and gas?

Raw veggies are filled with fiber, which may cause gas and bloating, so stick with cooked varieties that are easier to digest, Dr. Jose says. Scrambled eggs are rich in protein and easy to eat when you have a fever. Image Credit: inewsistock/iStock/GettyImages. 6. High-Protein Foods.

What are the nutrients in protein?

Largeman-Roth agrees: " Protein-rich foods like beans, nuts, lean meat and poultry contain the minerals selenium and zinc, which are vital for a healthy immune system," she says. Eggs — which also contain vitamin D (a micronutrient essential for immune function) — are another abundant source of protein.

What to do when you have a fever and you are burning up?

If you're burning up with fever, beware of the following foods that might restrict your recovery. 1. Alcohol, soda and caffeinated drinks: Steer clear of these beverages, since they can cause dehydration, Dr. Jose says. Remember, your body needs plenty of hydrating fluids to fight off an infection.

Does garlic help with colds?

Consuming aged garlic extract may also enhance your immun e cell function and, consequently, temper a cold's symptoms, according to a June 2012 study in Clinical Nutrition. Ginger is another spice that can strengthen the immune system.

Can you eat bananas with a fever?

But keep in mind that some fruits, especially those with seeds and skin, have lots of fiber and may be hard to digest when you have a fever (since your digestive system probably isn't in its best shape), she says. Stomach-friendly bananas and avocado are good options since they're less likely to cause any gastrointestinal discomfort.

What to do if your friend is sick with the flu?

If your friend is sick with the flu and the symptoms just started, they may benefit from antiviral medications to help lessen symptoms and shorten the duration of their illness. 2  But it's highly unlikely that they feel focussed enough to drive. Offer to take your friend to the doctor so they can get appropriate care.

How do you get the flu?

You can also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. When someone in a home has the flu, they may want to protect everyone from getting what they have—but not have ...

What to do when you're sick?

Bring Chicken Soup. Believe it or not, that chicken soup your mom used to give you when you were sick actually helps. The steam of the hot soup can help keep sinuses open, the extra fluids help with hydration, and some studies have even shown that the soup itself may help inhibit some cold and flu symptoms. 3 .

How to clean a sick room?

Clean the sick room daily using a disinfecting cleaner or soap and water on hard surfaces, such as doorknobs, bedside tables, bathroom sinks, toilets, countertops, phones, and toys. Bed linens and towels should be washed using regular detergent and dried on a hot dryer setting.

What to wear when someone is sick?

A cup with a straw or squeeze bottle to keep hydrated. A humidifier. Face masks for them to wear when they leave the room or are in contact with others 1 . Choose one person in the house to be the caregiver and avoid letting other people enter the sick room.

Can you take care of your dog if you have influenza?

It is extremely difficult to try to take care of others when you are sick and nearly impossible when you have influenza. Having kids come over to your house for a few hours or offering to take their dog on its daily walks can allow time and space for some much-needed rest.