Being sick is tough. Symptoms like nausea and exhaustion make eating a challenge. Maintaining nutrient intake is crucial, and while there’s no magic cure, certain foods may help. Truthfully, the best things to eat when you feel under the weather are the ones you truly enjoy and can keep down. Read this article to find the best foods for colds, flu, or other illnesses.
Coconut Water and Sports Drinks
Combat dehydration during illness by opting for coconut water or a sports drink. Rich in essential electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium, coconut water aids hydration and alleviates symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and dry mouth.
If coconut water isn’t appealing, a traditional sports drink like Gatorade offers similar fluid-restoring benefits. If stomach discomfort is a concern, a sports drink might be a gentler option, as coconut water was associated with more bloating and stomach upset in some participants.
Ginger for Digestive Discomfort
Ginger, renowned for its anti-nausea properties, serves as a comforting remedy for digestive discomfort. Backed by research, ginger doses up to approximately 1,500 milligrams daily can reduce nausea and vomiting without significant side effects.
The key components responsible for its anti-nausea effects are gingerols and shogaols, present in different forms like fresh, dried, powdered, or concentrated ginger. Whether sipping ginger tea or adding minced ginger to soup, the benefits for the sick remain consistent.
Honey for Soothing Coughs
You can combat cough symptoms with honey. Honey proves more effective than no remedy, a placebo, or diphenhydramine-containing over-the-counter medicines at relieving cough symptoms in kids. Compared to dextromethorphan-based OTC meds, honey exhibited almost the same cough-quelling effect.
It’s essential to note that studies primarily explore the efficacy of honey-based cough syrups or straight spoonfuls, not when mixed into food or drinks. While honey might not be a standalone solution for coughs lasting over three days, its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe a scratchy throat. Adding a touch of sweetness to your favorite hot drink might be a comforting choice.
Chicken Soup for Comfort
Chicken soup, a time-honored remedy, provides comfort and potential health benefits when under the weather. A study in the journal revealed that the ingredients in chicken soup can inhibit the inflammatory immune response responsible for symptoms like cough and congestion. The warm broth, offering hydration, soothes a sore throat. Additionally, the ease of consuming soup, with soft chicken and vegetables, provides essential nutrients like protein and fiber.
These are just a few of the options you have. If you feel sick and are wondering what to eat, you can also include bananas, oatmeal, yogurt, leafy greens, and various spices and seasonings, as these are rich in vitamins and help boost your immune system.