Colds are respiratory infections caused by several viruses. It could also be as a result of a weak immune system that allows the virus to set in. What kind of foods do you opt for at this point, to stop a runny nose, congestion, sore throat, and sneezing? Below are some foods that can help to prevent or treat cold, and also nourish your body.
1. Yellow bell peppers
Yellow bell peppers are a rich source of vitamin C and contain many more vitamins compared to other bell pepper colors. Vitamin C is one thing many people are quick to reach out for when they fall sick, and with one large yellow bell pepper producing an average of your daily value of vitamin C, you can be sure of its benefits.
Research has shown that vitamin C consumption helps to relieve cold symptoms and does not necessarily prevent colds. Yellow bell peppers are also sweet and they pair well with a variety of other ingredients.
2. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins (niacin and thiamin), antioxidants and selenium, and are known to help in boosting the immune system. They also provide protein, vitamin C, and iron, which does not only help in combating cold but also to improve the overall health of your body. You have to cook mushrooms to get their nutritional benefits, and this is because their cell walls can only be digestible when exposed to heat.
3. Chicken soup
The ingredients in this soup helps to slow white blood cells from gathering in the lungs and slows the progress of irritating side effects. Colds are caused by viral infections in the upper respiratory tract. Taking chicken soup is great at reducing irritation in the upper respiratory tract which will ultimately lessen cold symptoms.
The ingredients used to make this soup include chicken, onions, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, carrots, celery stems, parsley, salt and pepper.
4. Ginger
“Ginger has been recommended for cold-sufferers for thousands of years in Japan, China and in Ayurvedic medicine. Ginger tea is thought to be helpful at the beginning of a cold with no fever, and it may also help with nausea. Plus, having a warm cup of fresh ginger tea with honey and lemon juice can be a soothing way to loosen mucus and ease discomfort and nausea,” says Caroline Kaufman, M.S., RDN, a Los Angeles-based nutrition expert and health blogger at Caroline Kaufman Nutrition.
Ginger contains Gingerol (a substance with powerful medicinal properties) and can treat many forms of nausea and also reduces muscle pain and soreness.
Conclusion
These foods will not only help to combat cold but also help to build a strong immune system. Did we forget to state that they are also very palatable?
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