When you catch the flu, you have been infected by a so-called influenza virus that attacks your respiratory tract. This can make you quite ill. Resting and drinking enough water are important, but what you eat can also help you recover faster. What exactly should you eat (or avoid) when you have the flu?
What should you eat when you have the flu?
When you’re lying in bed because you’ve been struck down by that nasty flu, food is the last thing on your mind. But wait a minute, it’s still smart to eat something. This helps with a better recovery. Go for mild options that are easy to digest, such as a warm soup, some soft fruit, steamed vegetables or a bowl of oatmeal. “Although food does not of course replace medicine, certain foods can help to alleviate those annoying symptoms of the flu,” says Kiki Lahuis, nutritionist at Green Chef.
These are the best foods to eat during the flu:
Foods rich in vitamins and minerals
Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential nutrients that strengthen your immune system and help fight infections. Think of citrus fruits, berries, leafy vegetables, broccoli and peppers.
Clear soups
Broth, chicken or vegetable soup is not only hydrating, says Lahuis. “It also provides electrolytes and nutrients lost from your fever and all the sweating.”
Ginger and garlic
These herbs have natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help relieve symptoms and fight infections. “Ginger tea can help relieve nausea, sore throat and inflammation,” the nutritionist adds.
Yogurt with probiotics
The probiotics found in yogurt can be a great help in restoring healthy intestinal flora after illness, while also boosting your immune system. boost can give. ‘Just avoid eating sweet dairy products if you have a sore throat. Instead, opt for sour dairy products such as buttermilk, yoghurt or cottage cheese,” Lahuis advises. ‘Sweet products trap mucus in the throat, making your sore throat worse.’
Whole grains
Whole grains like oatmeal and quinoa can really boost your energy levels, says Lahuis. In addition, they make your intestines happy by supporting healthy intestinal flora.
What should you avoid if you have the flu?
“There are also certain foods that may have a negative impact on your immune system and therefore make you more susceptible to infections such as flu,” Lahuis explains. We list them:
Sugary foods and drinks
Excessive consumption of sugar can cause inflammation in your body and weaken your immune system, so avoid sweets, sodas and other sugary foods. Eating less sugar? These are useful tips for kicking the habit.
Highly processed foods
Those processed snacks and meals are often packed with sugar, fat and salt, which is not really good for your body and your immune system. Lahuis: ‘It is therefore better to choose fresh, natural options such as vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean meat. This is how you give yourself a healthy one boost!’
High-fat foods
Heavy, fatty meals, such as fried foods, fast food or fatty meats, can put a strain on your digestion and lower your energy levels. Instead, opt for lighter, digestible options.
Caffeine and alcohol
A cup of coffee here and there can be nice, but beware of too much caffeine! If you overdo it, it can disrupt your sleep and make you stressed. And yes, that can ultimately mess up your immune system! The same applies to (excessive) alcohol use.
By maintaining healthy eating habits and avoiding foods that can slow your recovery, you can support your immune system and get you back on your feet faster. Remember to listen to your body and get plenty of rest as you recover from the flu.
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2024-02-24 15:07:38
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