what to feed the 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. ...
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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.

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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.

What food makes flu worse?

Caffeinated drinks and alcohol Caffeine and alcohol can make your symptoms worse (especially stomach-related symptoms), so I'd recommend sipping on water and other clear liquids throughout the day to stay hydrated.

How do you cure the flu fast?

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...•

Should I feed the flu?

Illnesses caused by high temperatures, such as a fever, needed to be cooled down, so refraining from eating was thought to deprive the furnace of energy. Nowadays, most doctors and years of research into the cold and flu say there's only one tried-and-true treatment for colds and flu — plenty of rest and fluids.

Is boiled egg good for flu?

Eggs contain protein and it is essential to gain some strength and energy at a time like this. In fact, eggs are also filled with vitamins B6 and B12 that help in boosting immunity. So, boiled eggs are a good choice of food during a fever.

Is Gatorade good for flu?

"Sports beverages may be fine for healthy persons following intensive exercise, but they are not recommended for those with fever, diarrhea or vomiting. Seasonal influenza (flu) is not usually associated with diarrhea, but this season many children are reported to have it as one of their symptoms.

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.

How long till flu is gone?

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 fastest home remedy for flu?

The best natural cold and flu remediesHydration. Austin's number one recommendation for recovering quickly from a cold or flu virus is staying hydrated. ... Vitamin C. ... Sleep. ... Honey and tea. ... Chicken soup. ... Aromatherapy. ... A steamy shower. ... Gargling warm salt water.More items...

What should you eat for breakfast when you have the flu?

Consider eating the following foods when you have the flu.Broth. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or vegetable, broth is one of the best things you can eat when you have the flu. ... Chicken soup. ... Garlic. ... Yogurt. ... Vitamin C–containing fruits. ... Leafy greens. ... Broccoli. ... Oatmeal.More items...

What should I drink when sick with the flu?

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. Only use clear liquids (clear broth, juice, lemon-lime soda).

Which fruit is good for fever?

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.

What foods to avoid if you have Covid?

Avoid foods (e.g. snacks) that are high in salt and sugar. Limit your intake of soft drinks or sodas and other drinks that are high in sugar (e.g. fruit juices, fruit juice concentrates and syrups, flavoured milks and yogurt drinks). Choose fresh fruits instead of sweet snacks such as cookies, cakes and chocolate.

What foods make colds worse?

5 foods that are actually making your cough and cold worseSugar. You might crave a sugary tea or something sweet when you're down with a cold - what would you do without some comforts when you're sick after all? ... Alcohol. ... Caffeinated drinks. ... Milk. ... Spicy food.

How long does a 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.

What should I drink when sick with the flu?

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. Only use clear liquids (clear broth, juice, lemon-lime soda).

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 fruits are good for winter?

To get the most benefit, eat the whole fruit, which also contains gut-regulating fiber.

What to do for a scratchy throat?

8 Hot Tea. by Elena VeselovaGetty Images. A cup of steaming tea can help soothe a scratchy throat and warm you right up. Look for a tea blend with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, which can all help loosen congestion that comes with a cold or the flu.

How much of the immune system is in the gut?

Fun fact: 70% of your immune system is housed in your gut. That’s why keeping yourself healthy — or getting yourself back there when you’re sick — is partially reliant on what you feed it, says Elizabeth Shaw, M.S., R.D.N, nutrition expert and founder of ShawSimpleSwaps.com. The good bacteria (translation: probiotics) found in foods like yogurt can ...

Which fruit has the most vitamin C?

3 Strawberries. by JBfotoblogGetty Images. Oranges get all the vitamin C glory — and while they do contain a good amount of that immune-boosting antioxidant — strawberries actually contain more. Just one cup delivers nearly 99% of your daily value.

Does salmon help with colds?

Loading up on omega-3 rich salmon can help you battle the cold and flu in two ways. For one, omega-3 fatty acids are ant-inflammatory, meaning they help fight the inflammation that’s rampant in our bodies whenever we’re hurt or sick. And, research also suggests that the compound may help ease anxiety, says Shaw, a stressor that can hamper your immune system.

Does sweet syrup help with coughing?

This sweet syrup contains antioxidants to bolster your immune system, and it can also help tame a stubborn cough by soothing the back of the throat and breaking up hack-inducing mucus.

Is broccoli good for you?

These little green trees are known for their fiber content, but one cup of raw broccoli delivers nearly 100% of your daily value of vitamin C. “The nutritional benefits are far more superior if eaten raw or minimally cooked (such as steaming),” says Shaw.

What are some good foods to eat when you are sick?

Berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, are loaded with health benefits. In particular, anthocyanins make berries excellent foods to eat when sick because they appear to have strong anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting effects.

What to eat when you're sick?

Few foods are as comforting as soup when you’re sick, especially good old chicken soup. A hearty chicken soup is not only good for the soul but is packed with vitamins, minerals, protein, and some fat. The warm liquid from the broth may help improve upper respiratory tract symptoms by providing hydration and stimulating nasal clearance. The broth and vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, which contain vitamins A, C, and other antioxidants, have been shown to help support a robust immune response and fight off viruses.

Does yogurt help with sore throat?

Yogurt’s smooth texture can feel very soothing on a sore throat when sick. Even better, the live cultures have probiotics and immunity-boosting properties since 70% of your immune system is housed in your gut. The good bacteria found in yogurt can help support gut balance and may fight off infection.

Does ginger help with nausea?

Ginger is most well-known for relieving stomachache and nausea. Some suggest it may also fight inflammation and even ease congestion as well as stimulate circulation in the body. Ginger also provides an active compound called gingerol, which is known for its antimicrobial properties.

Does honey help with coughing?

Honey also contains antioxidants to help boost the immune system and tame coughing by soothing the back of the throat and breaking up mucus. Manuka honey, in particular, has increased antibacterial properties, which set it apart from traditional honey. This is because Manuka honey contains methylglyoxal, which may kill bacteria by destroying key bacterial proteins.