We’ve all been down with the flu at one point and desperately wished it would go away. In between taking drugs and getting some much-needed rest, it is important to eat the right kinds of food. This is because some foods are highly medicinal and help aid quick recovery.
Here are the top healthy foods to eat when you are sick;
- Pepper soup
Nigerian pepper soup is a natural remedy used to treat colds. It is rich in flavour and is a great source of vitamins and minerals which the body needs in even more quantities when sick. Pepper soup is an excellent source of fluids and this helps to keep the body hydrated. When consumed hot, it can serve as a natural decongestant which helps to clear nasal congestion. You can learn how to prepare a Nigerian Pepper Soup.
- Tea
Tea leaves are rich in catechins, polyphenols and flavonoids which help stimulate the immune system and protect the body from certain viruses. Like pepper soup, hot tea can serve as a natural decongestant and is a great way to stay hydrated throughout the day. Tea leaves are also rich in antioxidants and contain anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe coughs and sore throats. Drinking green tea is particularly encouraged because it contains high levels of EGCG which speeds up the body’s metabolism.
- Oatmeal
Oatmeal possesses a lot of health benefits. Loaded with important minerals and antioxidants such as iron, magnesium and vitamin B, oatmeal helps to boost immunity and decrease inflammation in the body. It also serves as a natural laxative which helps to relieve constipation.
- Vegetables
Vegetables are an important part of our daily diet and even more so when we are sick. Rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium and folic acid, vegetables such as spinach, cabbage, pumpkin leaves etc help to fortify the immune system and speed up recovery. They also increase the production of white blood cells in the body which help to fight infections.
- Fruits
Fruits that are rich in vitamin C help to reduce the severity of common cold symptoms and cut down the number of sick days. Fruits such as berries, apples and oranges are also rich in flavonoids which help strengthen the immune system.
- Fluids
It’s important that you stay hydrated when sick. This is because drinking fluids helps you restore your moisture level and flush out toxins from your system. Fluids such as water, tea and soup help your body stay well hydrated so that it can fight off germs.
Getting proper nutrition is one of the most important things you can do to speed up your recovery. Make sure to eat right, take your prescribed medications and get a lot of rest.