Having Flu and Colds Again? Consume these 7 nutritious foods to recover quickly

Jakarta –

Flu and colds are inevitable these days. To overcome this naturally, you can strengthen your body’s immunity by consuming the following foods.

In the midst of uncertain weather conditions and fluctuating immunity, flu and colds and their symptoms seem unavoidable. Especially if you are in an environment where many people suffer from flu and colds. The risk of transmission is unavoidable.

If you already have flu and colds, you can overcome them naturally by consuming foods with proper nutrition. This food contains antiviral, antimicrobial and immune-boosting compounds that will quickly get rid of flu and colds.

Quoting HuffPost (24/10/2024), here are 7 nutritious foods to consume during flu and colds:

1. Garlic

Garlic is a kitchen spice rich in anti-inflammatory properties and has compounds that increase the body’s immunity. Therefore, it is good to consume to prevent and treat flu and colds.

Dr. Tania Elliott of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says, “Garlic works to increase certain chemicals in the immune system that are responsible for fighting viruses and bacteria and also targets inflammatory cells.”

To consume it, don’t cook garlic because heat can eliminate its nutritional benefits. It’s better to eat it raw or if you want to cook it, try crushing it or cutting it into small pieces to activate the main bioactive compounds. Let stand for about 10-15 minutes before cooking.

2. Chili

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Green or red chilies can also be relied on because they contain powerful antioxidants that have antiviral properties. Consumption also stimulates the production of antibodies which ultimately help fight bacterial infections during the flu, said Dr. John La Puma author of the book “Big Book of Culinary Medicine.”

In addition, chilies contain capsaicin, a compound that can thin mucus. That way, viruses and bacteria that cause inflammation will not feel comfortable nesting.

3. Ginger

Almost every kitchen has ginger. This nutrient-rich spice is very good for treating sore throats. A study revealed that consuming ginger is effective against 3 common pathogens that cause throat infections.

Then another study found that ginger water had an effect like antibiotics that cause sore throat. All this is thanks to the gingerol compound content. You can process ginger by grating or slicing it, then add it to soup, smoothies, broth, or make it into tea.

4. Tea

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Tea can also be relied on to treat flu and colds because it helps hydrate the body which is important for the body’s immunity. If you want more benefits, try making tea with turmeric.

The spice turmeric contains curcumin which has anti-inflammatory properties. In a study, the effects of curcumin consumption for 12 weeks among healthy Japanese people were seen, they actually experienced a reduction in flu symptoms.

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