Are there any foods that aid in fighting a virus or cold?
Asked by kmalott on Apr 28, 2008
in Health Conditions
I have a bad cold, and rather than blowing my diet and searching for comfort foods to make my mood better, I'd like to help my body to fight the virus and feel better physically.
Answer
When you have a cold, drink plenty of warm fluids and get enough rest to repair your body. Eat chicken soup because a study in the medical journal Chest showed that it has anti-inflammatory properties and the warm vapors thin mucous secretions. Spices, like ginger, garlic, cinnamon, turmeric and cloves, are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory and so they might help too. Dairy products, like milk and ice cream, may thicken mucous secretions and increase phlegm. Avoid these foods if they trigger coughing in you. There is no good evidence that vitamin C, zinc, or echinacea supplements lessen cold symptoms. To discourage viruses from attacking in the first place, eat a balanced diet with a variety of wholesome foods, especially foods high in vitamin C.
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