These Are The Best Foods To Eat When You’re Sick

Food is fuel! And it’s one of your best defenses and remedies when you are sick. Whether it’s a cold, a virus, or the flu that’s bugging you, food can help you sort it out. However, when you are feeling under the weather food decisions become a bit complicated due to the lack of appetite or taste preferences during the period. But that’s why we are here. When you can’t rely on your taste buds, it’s important to take things into your own hands. Today, we are going to show you the best foods to eat when sick. They can help you feel better, heal faster, and get you back on your feet in no time.

Whether it’s a cold, a virus, or the flu that’s bugging you, food can help you sort it out

Best Foods To Eat When Sick

When you aren’t feeling your best, you need to make sure you are giving your body plenty of good nutrients, so it has enough fuel and strength to fight off the virus that is pestering you. However, what you should eat also depends on what type of sickness are you fighting off (the flu, a cold, upset stomach or constipation). But don’t worry we will tell you which food is best for what type of sickness. So, let’s see what you should eat (other than the obvious ones like ginger or honey).

We are going to show you the best foods to eat when sick

#Chicken Soup

Well, this is a classic and for good reason. Chicken soup has been a go-to cure for generations all around the world. It’s easy to eat, and it’s packed with protein, minerals, vitamins and enough calories and nutrients to help your body recover from an illness. It’s also a rich source of electrolytes and fluids, which are essential for keeping you hydrated. Plus, since it’s warm, it can even help reduce congestion. Chicken soup can be consumed no matter what sickness you are dealing with.

Chicken soup has been a go-to cure for generations all around the world

#Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are packed with soluble fiber which means they are amazing at supporting and encouraging regular bowel movements. Not only that but they are also packed with omega-3 acids, which can help reduce bowel inflammation, which can occur if you have been constipated for a while. However, since the outer shell of the seed is hard to digest, it’s best to eat it pre-ground for the best results.

Flaxseeds are packed with soluble fiber that supports regular bowel movements

#Garlic

Garlic has proven itself in herbal medicine for centuries. This vegetable has a ton of antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects. While research is still needed on the topic, people swear by its virus fighting properties. So, why not add some garlic to the food you are making. It adds flavor, and it’s great for your immune system. Garlic is best consumed for a cold or the flu.

Garlic has proven itself in herbal medicine for centuries

#Coconut Water

If you are dealing with an upset tummy, some coconut water will do you good. An upset stomach usually occurs when the stomach lining gets inflamed. Some compounds, called tannins, found in coconut water can help to reduce the inflammation and consequently relieving you of the stomach bug. Not only that but it is also high in minerals, such as sodium and potassium, which can help the body rehydrate quicker.

Some coconut water will do your upset stomach good

#Warm Liquids

Staying hydrated is key no matter what you are sick with. Of course, you are dealing with stomach problems, it’s best to introduce liquids slowly, but don’t cut them out! That’s why drinking plenty of warm liquids is a must. Warm liquids such as soups, broths and teas can act as a natural decongestant and can really help you out with that stuffy nose. Not only that but they are also soothing for a sore throat. Teas, in particular, also contain a bunch of polyphenols which are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects.

Staying hydrated is key no matter what you are sick with

#Citrus Fruits

Citrus foods, like lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruit have high levels of vitamin C and flavonoids. This helps with boosting immunity and decreasing inflammation, which can consequently help you fight off a high fever. Eating citrus fruits is great if you are battling the flu or a cold.

Citrus foods, like lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruit have high levels of vitamin C

#B.R.A.T

BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (wholegrain preferably). All of these foods are a great choice is you are dealing with an upset stomach and struggle with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, as well as diarrhea. The BRAT foods are bland, so they are gentle on the stomach. However, they are also rich in starches and have little fiber (which you do not need more of if struggling with stomach symptoms). Some other foods you can include are crackers, oatmeal, boiled potatoes and watermelon.

BRAT stands for bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast

#Dried Fruits

If you are struggling with constipation, then you need to add a good source of fiber to your diet. A great way to do so is with dried fruits. Especially with fruits such as apricots, prunes, and figs. These fruits are not only packed with fiber, they are also known to contain the natural laxative known as sorbitol, which helps to promote healthy bowel movements.

If you are struggling with constipation, dried fruits can help

What Should You NOT Eat When Sick?

Okay, so now that know what’s good to eat, it’s also significant to know what to avoid in times when your immune system is compromised. There are some foods that not only don’t help you when you are sick, but they can also make your symptoms worse and may even cause stomach issues. That’s why it’s important to know them, so you can avoid them.

It’s also significant to know what to avoid in times when your immune system is compromised

#Caffeine and Alcohol

The last thing you need while you are sick is getting dehydrated. Consuming caffeinated or alcoholic drinks will only worsen your symptoms, especially if they are stomach-related. These types of drinks only dehydrate you, and that is the exact opposite of what you want.

Consuming caffeinated or alcoholic drinks will only worsen your symptoms

#Greasy, Processed Foods

Your body is already struggling. It’s using most of its energy to fight off the pesky disease, so the last thing it needs is food that takes a ton of energy and resources to break down foods that are hard on your gastrointestinal system. Such foods include those that are high in saturated fats and in general greasy foods. You also don’t get a lot of nutrition from them, in general.

Avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and in general greasy foods

#Sugary Foods

While you may think your favorite sugary treat will help you feel at least mentally better, all you will be doing is inflaming your immune system. Foods that are high in sugar, especially processed sugars, aren’t nutritionally dense and can even dehydrate you.

It’s best to avoid highly processed foods with tons of sugar

These were some of the best foods to eat when sick, as well as which foods it’s best to avoid. We hope you found this article useful. Now you can go and stock up on all these good foods and start to feel better in no time.

These were some of the best foods to eat when sick

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• The Best Teas For a Strong Immune System
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• Tips and Ticks For a Strong Immune System
• The Best Natural Flu and Cold Remedies

Sources:

• Cleveland Clinic ©
• Healthline ©
• Health ©
• Medical News Today ©
• WebMD ©
• Eating Well ©
• The Ohio State University ©

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