7 Top Foods to Eat When You are Sick

When you are sick, taking the right foods is very important, more than ever. Some foods contain powerful properties that can help to support your body, while it is fighting an illness.

Also, these foods may help relieve certain symptoms, and even help to treat you more quickly.

These are the 7 top foods to eat when sick.

1. Bananas

Bananas are a good food to eat when you are fighting sickness. They are bland in flavor, easy to chew , but, also provide nutrients and calories.

These are the reasons on why bananas are part of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) that is often recommended for nausea.

Another huge benefit of bananas are the soluble fiber they contain. If you are suffering from diarrhea, bananas are one of the best foods to eat because the fiber can help in relieving diarrhea.

In fact, some hospitals make use of banana flakes to treat patients with diarrhea.

2. Coconut Water

When the stomach lining becomes inflamed, an upset stomach occurs. Compounds known as tannins, which are present in coconut water may help in reducing this inflammation.

Also, coconut water is rich in minerals, including potassium and sodium. They can help your body in rehydrating quickly after vomiting or diarrhea.

A study found that coconut water may help in providing the same level of hydration as a sports drink. Also, it is more healthful, as it has no added sugar. But, it is worth noting that the study only included 12 study participants.

3. Honey

A sore throat can be caused by bacterial infection. Honey is loaded in anti-microbials that help in clearing these types of infection.

Also, honey may be effective in treating children’s coughs, but, remember that it should not be given to infants who are under 12 months of age.

A 2018 review, compared honey with common over-the-counter (OTC) children’s cough remedies, no treatment and a placebo.

The authors reported that honey appeared to be more effective than salbutamol and diphenhydramine, which are drugs most often used in cough medicines. Also, honey has the same results as dextromethorphan, which is another common ingredient.

The results were limited, as most studies included in the review, only looked at 1-night acute cough.

4. Green Leafy Vegetables

It is essential to get all of the minerals and vitamins your body needs while sick, but, it can be very difficult to do with a typical “sick foods” diet.

Leafy green vegetables including romaine lettuce, spinach, and kale are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are good sources of folate, vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K.

Dark green vegetables are also filled with beneficial plant compounds, which act as antioxidants that helps in protecting cells from damage, and in fighting inflammation. Also, leafy green vegetables have been used for their antibacterial properties.

You can add spinach to omelet for that fast, easy, nutrient-packed, and protein-rich meal. or try tossing a handful of kale in a fruit smoothie.

5. Salmon

Salmon is one of the best sources of protein to consume when you are sick. It is easy to eat, soft and filled with high-quality protein, which your body needs.

Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which contains strong anti-inflammatory effects. Also, salmon is a good source of minerals and vitamins, including vitamin D, which many persons are lacking in. Vitamin D plays a key role in immune function.

6. Spicy Foods

When you are congested, it may be hard to eat. You cannot smell, and cannot taste.

What your body really needs is to clear your eustachian tube and sinuses. The perfect remedy for this is to consume super spicy foods. Your body reacts to the burning sensation, thru loosening up the mucus that has been clogging your body. Also, the strong flavors will be easier for you to taste, as compared to bland and tasteless foods.

A 2011 research that was published in the journal, Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, stated cayenne pepper spice (or rather capsaicin, which is cayenne’s active ingredient) in improving circulation, which makes digestion more efficient, and even in relieving congestion and pain related to flu symptoms.

The study prescribed capsaicin nasal spray to the participants during a duration of about 2 weeks and repported that overall participants who used the spray, suffered less congestion.

7. Soup

Soup is another of the favorites when you are feeling sick. The warming broth of soup helps to relax your chest when you are congested.

Onion and garlic broth give wonderful nutrients, and have been reported to be anti-microbial. Some people have a rule that people should restrict dairy intake when they lots of phlegm and mucus, which is true for creamy soups, including cream of mushroom and chicken , that can exacerbate coughing.

Although studies are not suggesting that a warm bowl of chicken soup will treat, what is ailing you, this comforting and popular home remedy has been credited for it’s ability to hydrate your body to help in reducing overall inflammation, fighting infection, and freeing up congested noses, airways, and throats.

Sources:
Activebeat
Medical News Today
Healthline

Related:

- 6 Top Anti-Aging Herbs and Spices

- Herbal Teas That Lower Bad Cholesterol

- Top 6 Ingredients to Use for Healthy & Delicious Juice Blends

- 3 Healthy Drink Options other than Water

- 11 Healing Properties of Lemon