KOMPAS.com – The rainy season can make us susceptible to flu due to the damp air and cold weather.
When we have the flu, we may not feel like eating or drinking. However, it is still important to get the fluids and nutrients the body needs for recovery.
Although appetite tends to decrease during flu, try to eat foods that can provide energy and nutrients to speed recovery.
Also read: Potato Steamed Chicken Recipe, Minimal Oil Side Dish for Those Who Have the Flu
The following is a guide to what foods and drinks you should consume, as well as what you should avoid during the flu.
The importance of maintaining hydration
Hydration is very important to maintain body function. During the flu, fever, sweating, and loss of appetite can cause dehydration.
Water is the best choice to hydrate the body. If you want a more flavorful drink, you can try:
- broth
- ginger tea
- herbal tea with honey
- honey and lemon tea (mix with warm water)
- 100 percent juice without added sugar
The right food for flu
Eating the right foods provides the energy and nutrients the body needs, especially during the flu. Here are some recommended foods:
1. broth
Chicken, beef or vegetable broth is a comforting and nutritious choice, helping prevent dehydration, soothe a sore throat and improve breathing.
2. Chicken soup
Chicken soup is known as a mainstay food when sick. Its ingredients, such as fluids and electrolytes from broth, protein from chicken, vitamin A from carrots, and vitamin C from celery and onions, provide good nutritional benefits.
3. Garlic
Garlic has antiviral properties that can help improve the immune system.
Garlic illustration.You can add it to food, take supplements, or eat it raw.
4. Foods contain vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for healthy bones and the immune system. Foods rich in vitamin D include cod liver oil, trout, salmon, cow’s milk, and fortified vegetable milk.
Also read: How Effective are Saline Drops in Treating Flu in Babies
5. Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics, good bacteria that can support the immune system. Choose yogurt that has active cultures, contains vitamin D, and is low in sugar.
6. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C
Vitamin C is important for increasing body immunity. Sources of vitamin C include red or green bell peppers, oranges, kiwi, broccoli and lemon juice.
7. Green vegetables
Spinach, kale, and other green vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K which can help strengthen the immune system. You can add it to smoothies, soups, or salads.
Illustration of spinach plant. 8. Broccoli
Broccoli contains vitamins C and E, calcium, and fiber which help strengthen the body’s immune system. Eat broccoli steamed or add it to soup.
9. Oatmeal
A bowl of warm oatmeal can be a comfort food. The content includes copper, iron, selenium, zinc, fiber and protein which supports the immune system.
Also read: 6 Health Benefits of Consuming Oats and Oatmeal
10. Spices
Spices such as ginger and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve flu symptoms. You can add it to tea, warm water with lemon, or soup.
Listen breaking news And selected news we’re right on your phone. Choose your favorite news channel to access Kompas.com WhatsApp Channel: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaFPbedBPzjZrk13HO3D. Make sure you have installed the WhatsApp application.
