Webmaster
12-22-2008, 08:53 AM
By Alison Johnson
Daily Press (Newport News, Va
When a cold or flu strikes, doctors say there are foods and drinks that — along with plenty of rest — may help you get better faster. Here are some of the suggested foods:
• Hot soup. Soup is a good source of fluid and soothing heat for your throat; its saltiness also can help lower the risk of dehydration from a fever. Choose clearer broths over creamy varieties, and be aware that some scientific evidence suggests chicken soup can help fight infection.
• Vitamin C. Doctors aren't sure if the nutrient can shorten illnesses, but foods rich in vitamin C tend to be healthy anyway. Good sources include strawberries, oranges, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, red peppers, broccoli and orange juice.
• Lean meats. Healthy levels of iron — found in lean red meat, chicken and fish — can help maintain a strong immune system.
• Garlic. Compounds in the onionlike plant may help shorten the duration of a cold. Use fresh or dried garlic in recipes, or ask your doctor about taking a supplement.
• Honey. The sticky substance can reduce coughing by coating and soothing an irritated throat. Try swallowing between 1/2 and 2 teaspoons, especially before you want to sleep. Note: Never give honey to children younger than 1; it can cause a rare but potentially fatal illness.
• Hot peppers. Capsaicin, a natural compound in peppers, can help thin mucus and clear stuffy noses. Depending on your tolerance for spicy foods, stir a dash or more of fresh or dried pepper into dishes.
• Water. Staying well hydrated can reduce symptoms such as headache and sore throat.
• Green tea. Antioxidants in tea leaves can boost immune function. Just be aware that green tea has caffeine — so it may interfere with sleep if you drink too much.
from: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2008548747_zhea22eatsick.html
Daily Press (Newport News, Va
When a cold or flu strikes, doctors say there are foods and drinks that — along with plenty of rest — may help you get better faster. Here are some of the suggested foods:
• Hot soup. Soup is a good source of fluid and soothing heat for your throat; its saltiness also can help lower the risk of dehydration from a fever. Choose clearer broths over creamy varieties, and be aware that some scientific evidence suggests chicken soup can help fight infection.
• Vitamin C. Doctors aren't sure if the nutrient can shorten illnesses, but foods rich in vitamin C tend to be healthy anyway. Good sources include strawberries, oranges, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, red peppers, broccoli and orange juice.
• Lean meats. Healthy levels of iron — found in lean red meat, chicken and fish — can help maintain a strong immune system.
• Garlic. Compounds in the onionlike plant may help shorten the duration of a cold. Use fresh or dried garlic in recipes, or ask your doctor about taking a supplement.
• Honey. The sticky substance can reduce coughing by coating and soothing an irritated throat. Try swallowing between 1/2 and 2 teaspoons, especially before you want to sleep. Note: Never give honey to children younger than 1; it can cause a rare but potentially fatal illness.
• Hot peppers. Capsaicin, a natural compound in peppers, can help thin mucus and clear stuffy noses. Depending on your tolerance for spicy foods, stir a dash or more of fresh or dried pepper into dishes.
• Water. Staying well hydrated can reduce symptoms such as headache and sore throat.
• Green tea. Antioxidants in tea leaves can boost immune function. Just be aware that green tea has caffeine — so it may interfere with sleep if you drink too much.
from: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2008548747_zhea22eatsick.html