5 Accents In The Diet For Colds And Flu

The story of the healing power of grandmother's chicken soup is not accidental. Today, more than ever, we are aware that our food is key to the body's recovery from illness and strengthen the immune system, and even more, can be a factor in the emergence of pathological processes.


Diet is especially important when the infection lasts for several days - then the body urgently needs vitamins and minerals that will help it resist the disease.


Nutrients that are valuable for building, maintaining and functioning of its structures include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids. Water and sources of energy and building material - carbohydrates, proteins and fats - are vital for the body. In order to strengthen the immune system in case of illness, you must first ensure variety and a good balance in nutrition.

 

1. Rich in protein, vitamin B 6 and vitamin B 12 , food

Foods that help the body fight infections are those that provide enough protein. They are the main structural material for building the agents of the immune system. The main sources of protein are: lean meat, chicken, fish, legumes, dairy products, eggs and nuts. We need at least 50 g per day. With their consumption they are delivered and necessary for the healing process and the immune system - vitamin B 6 and vitamin B 12.
Vitamin B 6 is contained more in turkey meat and legumes, as well as in potatoes, spinach and whole grains. Vitamin B 12 is found mainly in legumes, nuts, meat and chicken.
 

2. Bioflavonoids

About 4,000 plant flavonoids are known. These are the same substances that give a bright color to fruits and vegetables (and flowers). For example, flavonoids that strengthen the immune system can be found in citrus fruits, such as grapefruit, orange, lemon. However, they should be used not only in the form of juice, but whole, as valuable substances are in their bitter skin.
 

3. Glutathione

Glutathione is a substance that strengthens the immune system in its fight against infections. The antioxidant is mostly found in watermelon near the peel, but is also found in vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli.

4. Vitamin C and folic acid

Consumption of dairy products secretes more body secretions, which is useful for coughs and sore throats. However, consumption of dairy products during illness may worsen symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Orange juice together with the pulp is extremely rich in vitamin C and folic acid, two vitamins that accelerate healing in flu and colds. The statement is based on serious scientific research in this direction.
 

5. More fluids

In order to provide an optimal environment for the functioning of the immune system, the body should be kept hydrated. Juices, clear vegetable soups, diluted lemon juice, lime juice are useful. Warm tea also helps, but not black, with honey - soothes the throat. Hot drinks are preferable to cold ones, as they help to expand the airways.
 

Once the digestive system has calmed down in the disease, whole grain products should be gradually introduced into the diet. In this period are suitable: bananas, rice, toasted slices, baked apples.
Naturally, grandma's chicken soup also helps, but not as much as the foods listed above, according to a study published in the journal Chest.