Recover from colds more easily with these foods

Updated Feb 23, 2019

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The United States is in the throes of flu season and no sniffle can be trusted. While flu activity begins to increase around October and November, it peaks between December and February and continues until as late as May, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you’ve developed the flu or a seasonal cold, there are some foods which may help you make a quicker recovery.

1. Chicken Noodle Soup: Chicken noodle soup’s long-established reputation as the ultimate go-to sick food is well-deserved. It serves as a good source of fluids, vitamins, and nutrients, all of which you’ll need to recover from a cold. Chicken soup also contains cysteine, an amino acid that is credited for helping to break up mucus.

2. Ginger: If you’re feeling nauseous or having gastric issues, ginger may be a solution. Ginger tea or even flat ginger ale can help soothe those issues, according to Greatist. Ginger-based drinks can help keep you hydrated while also remedying stomach issues like constipation and bloating. Chicken Soup

3. Garlic: Sneaking garlic into your meals may give your immune system a boost, according to Healthline. Studies have found that individuals with garlic in their diets may get sick less and may recover from colds faster. Garlic can be worked into almost any dish, including soups and broths. 

4. Spicy Foods: Not everyone has the palette for spicy foods, but these foods can serve as a natural decongestant for breaking up mucus and clearing an individual’s airways. Your nose may run and your eyes may water, but it’ll make for easier breathing when you’re done.

5. Honey: Cooking Light cites honey as a good go-to for soothing a sore throat from flu or cold-induced coughing. It’s sweet and can be mixed with a warm drink or tea.