Eating right when you have a cold: what to watch out for

Eating right when you have a cold can be a challenge. You either taste nothing or have no appetite. But even when hunger is high, some foods should be removed from the menu.

Eat right when you have a cold

When the neck scratches and the nose runs, we feel uncomfortable. In addition to the well-known chicken soup, there are some other foods that get the immune system back on its feet.

• Chicken soup: As a protein-rich energy supplier, it strengthens the immune system. This is probably due to the vitamins in the vegetables, but also to the ingredients of the chicken meat carnosine. The soup also provides warmth, which loosens the mucus and can relieve cold symptoms.
• Vitamin C: It is immediately linked to the immune system. However, the vitamin should also be taken prophylactically before infection. The radical catcher is found in citrus fruits, but also in broccoli or peppers. Intake via dietary supplements is less recommended because naturally occurring vitamins have better bioavailability.
• Zinc: The trace element is also known to render free radicals harmless. Taking zinc in time can even shorten the onset of a cold. For example, oatmeal, fish and cheese contain zinc, which in combination with vitamin C does even better.
• Ginger: The tuber has become more popular than ever when it comes to colds. Why ginger is so healthy can be explained quickly, because the mustard oils it contains have an antimicrobial effect, which means like a natural antibiotic. Its sharpness can even clear a stuffy nose. It also promotes blood circulation and warms the body from the inside.
• Honey: unheated, it contains enzymes, flavonoids and minerals that strengthen the immune system and have an antibacterial effect. It also has a soothing effect on coughs. Heat destroys its healing ingredients. The more expensive Manuka honey with its high methylglyoxal content has proven particularly successful. It should be taken for at least four weeks to develop its antibiotic effects.
• Onions: Instead of chicken broth, you can also prepare an effective onion soup. The sulfur-containing compounds (alliins) that bring tears to the eyes are virus-killing. The flavonoid quercetin also helps.
• Tea: Drink enough liquid in the form of tea or mineral water. Chamomile, peppermint or ginger tea is particularly recommended. But special cold teas can also help. Drink at least two liters a day to speed up the healing of the cold.