Introduction
Just like managing your diet is important for keeping your body healthy, there are ways you can manage your flu and cold through diet as well! It's not always easy to stay healthy during the winter, but it's important to try your best so you don't get sick.
Below we (Aisha Nutri Diet) will outline some dietary tips to help you manage flu and cold this season. Keep in mind that these tips are not a replacement for seeking medical advice, rather they are complementary measures to help support your immune system.
What Causes Cold and Flu?
Let's start with the basics. What causes cold and flu in the first place?
As it turns out, there are a number of different viruses that can cause the common cold, and these viruses can be passed from person to person through coughing, sneezing and contact with contaminated surfaces. The flu, on the other hand, is caused by the influenza virus, and it's a more serious illness that can lead to hospitalization.
Both cold and flu are highly contagious, so it's important to take steps to protect yourself from exposure. Washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick are two of the most effective ways to reduce your risk.
Different Types of Cold and Flu
There are different types of cold and flu, and each one of them has their own set of symptoms. It's important to know what you're dealing with before you can start to manage it.
The common cold is a viral infection that causes a runny nose, sore throat, and congestion. It's the most common type of cold, and it can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks.
The flu is a more serious illness that is caused by the influenza virus. It can lead to chest congestion, body aches, fever, and diarrhea. The flu can also be life-threatening in some cases, so it's important to get medical help if you think you might have it.
Symptoms of Flu and Cold
When it comes to the flu and cold, one of the biggest problems is that people often don't know how to differentiate between the two. Many of the symptoms are similar, but there are a few key ways to tell them apart.
The flu is a respiratory infection that can cause:
- high fever.
- body aches.
- and severe fatigue.
It can also lead to more serious complications like pneumonia. Colds, on the other hand, are less severe and are caused by a virus that targets the throat and nose. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion.
Knowing the symptoms is an important step in managing your health, but it's not the only one. You also need to be aware of what you can do to help prevent them in the first place. One of the best ways to do that is by boosting your immune system with a healthy diet.
Foods That Help Fight Cold and Flu
There are certain foods that can help your body fight off cold and flu. Here are some of the best ones to eat when you’re feeling under the weather:
Chicken soup: This classic comfort food has been shown to help reduce inflammation and promote mucus production, which can help clear your congestion.
Garlic: This pungent herb has antiviral and antibacterial properties and can help boost your immune system.
Honey 🍯: Honey has antiviral and antibacterial properties and can help soothe a sore throat.
Ginger: Ginger can help relieve nausea and vomiting, and is also thought to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C, which is thought to help boost the immune system.
So, there you have it! These are just a few of the foods that can help you fight cold and flu. Be sure to stock up on them next time you’re at the grocery store.
Food to Avoid When You Have the Flu or a Cold
There are certain foods you should avoid when you have the flu or a cold. Foods that are high in sugar, for instance, can suppress your immune system. So it's best to steer clear of sugary drinks and snacks when you're feeling under the weather.
Other foods to avoid include dairy, which can cause mucus buildup, and processed foods, which are low in nutrients and can make you feel worse. So it's best to stick with whole foods that are packed with vitamins and minerals, like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
The Importance of Taking Supplements to Support in Fighting Flu and Cold
You might not know this, but supplements can be really helpful in fighting flu and cold. Here are some of the best ones to take:
Vitamin C: This is a powerful antioxidant that can help boost your immune system.
Zinc: This mineral is essential for a healthy immune system. It can also help shorten the duration of a cold if taken at the first sign of symptoms.
Echinacea: This herb is traditionally used to help fight off infections and reduce symptoms.
Garlic: This pungent herb has antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help fight off a cold or flu.
Probiotics: These helpful bacteria can support a healthy immune system and may help reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms.