6 Must-Haves & Immune Boosters for When You’re Feeling Sick

6 Must-Haves for When You’re Feeling Sick (Plus, Immune Boosters to Add to Your Diet)
Sick woman with headache sitting under the blanket

(GoHealthier.com) – Feeling sick is never any fun, but there are some great foods and drinks that may make it easier and ease symptoms. Plus, we can add immune-boosting options to our normal diet to reduce the chances of future sickness. That’s a great way to feel better fast and stay that way for the future. Don’t settle for feeling blah when there are easy and tasty options that might help.

1. Chicken Soup

While some people call it an “old wives’ tale,” chicken soup really may be good for us when we’re sick. This option has been around for hundreds of years as a recommended food for people who are ill. It’s full of protein, minerals, and vitamins. It also offers electrolytes and fluids, which are important for the body’s healing process too.

2. Citrus Fruits

The vitamin C and other nutrients in citrus fruits like oranges may help our bodies fight off sickness. By increasing the production of white blood cells, vitamin C may help the body fight off infection. If oranges aren’t available, try grapefruit, tangerines, or clementines. Any citrus fruit offers vitamin C.

3. Coconut Water

When we’re sick, it’s vital to stay well-hydrated. For people who are vomiting, sweating a lot, or have a fever, coconut water may be a good choice. Coconut water helps with rehydration, and it’s less likely to upset the stomach than some other options. It also contains electrolytes and glucose, which may help keep the body’s systems in balance.

4. Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers are abundant in vitamin C. In an ounce-for-ounce comparison, these peppers contain nearly three times as much of the vitamin as an orange. They also contain beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, protecting skin and keeping it healthy, along with being good for eyesight.

5. Ginger

When we’re sick, ginger may be an excellent choice to lower inflammation in the body. Ginger has been used to relieve sore throats and could also reduce nausea. Some research shows that ginger may lower cholesterol and decrease chronic pain. A lower level of pain may help anyone who’s sick feel better and rest more easily. That extra rest may help with combating illness.

6. Hot Tea

Warm, soothing liquid is a comforting choice when we’re ill. Not only does hot tea help reduce pain from a sore throat, but it may also help increase comfort and reduce stress during sickness. Additionally, hot tea is good as a decongestant, making it easier to breathe properly. Some teas contain caffeine, but the amounts are small and won’t contribute to dehydration. That makes tea a smart choice for sipping throughout the day.

Bonus: Add These Immune Boosters to Your Diet

For anyone who’s ill, immune boosters may help. That’s also true for people who are healthy and want to reduce their chances of becoming sick. For an added bonus and a boost to the immune system, consider:

  • Garlic
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Turmeric
  • Kiwi

Immune-boosting foods are found everywhere, so there are sure to be choices that work for everyone. The more we learn about healthy immune systems and our own food preferences, the more we may be able to focus on a diet that tastes great and keeps us healthy, too.

~Here’s to a Healthier Life!

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