Flu Fighters: Food and Hydration to Conquer Illness
- Nov 2, 2024
Ever experienced the misery of having the flu? The utter disdain towards food and fluids? Well, friend, we are here to talk about the nitty-gritty of flu survival, and it doesn't involve just binge-watching Netflix while consuming calorie-laden comfort food.
Your body needs fuel to heal and staying hydrated is paramount. Mankind has been gallivanting about our blue marble for hundreds of thousands of years with no Wi-Fi, and trust us, we've figured out some ways to conquer the common flu.
Dehydration – yeah, it's a thing. The little monster can creep in when you have a bout of the flu. Throw in symptoms like fever or diarrhea, and you're losing fluids faster than a leaking faucet. Stay on top of it by drinking water regularly.
Been sweating it out under your four-season goose down comforter? Consider sipping on clear soups or broths. Sodium-rich soups like bone broth, can replenish those lost fluids and nutrients - it's like a spa day for your dehydrated body.
What else can help? Heat is a congestion-clearing wizard! Hot liquids like chicken soup can work miracles. And if chicken soup isn't your thing, opt for a warm and comforting tea instead. Make it ambrosial by adding some honey too.
You know what else does wonders when you're down and out? Good ol' Vitamin D and C. They're like the Batman and Robin duo that helps you fight bacteria and viruses. You can often find these bright little rays of health in your breakfast cereal, yogurt, egg yolks, or a host of fruits and vegetables.
Talking about vitamins, let's take a moment to appreciate the greatness of juice. But not just any juice, we're talking 100% fruit juice, without added sugars. Look for one that mentions 'no added sugars' on the label and get your daily fruit intake in a glass.
Oatmeal more than just a breakfast staple, it's a nutrient-rich powerhouse that can boost your immune system. Plus, it has a comforting warmth that's just right to soothe those stomach woes.
Instead of reaching for another bag of chips, get your greens on. Dark leafy greens are anti-inflammatory warriors loaded with vitamins. Saute some spinach or kale or add them to a soup or smoothie. Your body will thank you.
Tummy-unfriendly options like raw broccoli may not seem appealing, but trust me, it’s a big hitter in the nutrition league. Cook it, mix it with a meal, and gain the benefits of vitamins C and E, fiber, and calcium.
Have a banana. Being part of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast), it's going to be gentle on that stomach of yours and it's a great source of potassium to replenish electrolytes lost during the unfortunate flu saga.
Despite the myth about dairy being mucus-producing, yogurt can be a friend during these trying times. Choose low-fat or unsweetened varieties with live and active cultures. It's like sending an elite probiotic force down your gut to fight off the bad bacteria.
Toast is basic, almost boring, but guess what? It's simple enough not to upset your already irritated digestive tract. Pair it with a broth to boost hydration levels.
Ice pops. They're not just for kids anymore. They're a soothing treat for that ignored sore throat and a cocktail full of hydration, sans alcohol of course. Opt for options made with fruit juice over cream-based variants.
Don't forget our friend garlic. Research shows its potential in fighting the flu. Sweet indeed, like a garlic donut. Just kidding. But, consider incorporating sweet spices like cinnamon and honey in your diet for an immune-boost.
Remember, while the general idea is to stay as nourished and hydrated as possible, we also advocate balance in the form of comfort foods. And keep a watchful eye on your symptoms. If there's shortness of breath or high fever, your healthcare provider is just a call away.
Take care, eat some kale, and get back to fighting fit.