Eating the right foods when you have a cold, can help you strengthen the immune system and make you overcome the cold sooner. You’ve probably noticed that when you have a cold, you don’t have an appetite, but it’s really important to eat something and keep your body hydrated. Another important thing is to choose the right foods, because some foods can make you feel worse.
Here are the 5 foods that are good for you when you have a cold:
1. Chicken soup
Chicken soup is the best thing to consume when you have a cold. It’s nutritious, it has anti-inflammatory effect and it will keep you hydrated.
2. Ginger
Ginger contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and can help you fight the cold. Prepare yourself a cup of warm ginger tea and feel the relief .
3. Cranberries
These tiny, yet powerful gems are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C and can give your immune system a boost. Cranberry juice can help you overcome a cold faster, so pour yourself a glass.
4. Chili peppers
Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which can relieve your cold symptoms. Chili peppers can also help you relieve coughing and stuffy nose.
5. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are immune boosters and they’re rich in zinc, magnesium and selenium. They’re great cold-fighting food.
Here are the 5 foods you should avoid:
1. Sweets
Sweets are the last thing you need when you have a cold. Sugar can suppress your immune system and make you feel even worse.
2. Strawberries
Strawberries are high histamine-releasers and can make you feel worse. They can cause discomfort to your nose and sinuses and cause serious congestion.
3. Pickled food
Avoid them when you’re feeling sick, because the salt and vinegar can increase the inflammation of a sore throat.
4. Processed foods
Processed foods contain high levels of sugar, salt and fat and can delay your body’s healing process. Avoid these foods if you want to heal faster.
5. Crispy foods
Don’t eat crunchy foods if your throat is sore. The foods will only irritate your throat more and thus prolong your suffering.