Eating through the Flu

Many of us lead active lifestyles where we unconsciously fall into bad habits which include eating high fat and high sugar junk food. We also tend to skip meals and drink far too much caffeine containing liquids. This means that we become much more susceptible to minor illnesses such as the flu and colds.

If you make the decision to change your daily diet by eating lots of whole grains and pulses plus fruit vegetables and low fat protein then you go a long way to helping to keep your immune system in good working order and you give yourself a fighting chance to ward off any flu viruses that come your way.

During the worst phase of the flu you’ll probably find your appetite is minimal to non existent. But there will thankfully come a time when you feel ready to make that transition from liquids to solid food.

Eat lightly and eat wisely. For some people, when ready to make that transition to eating normally again they should make sure they choose foods that are fairly bland and starchy. Dry toast is good so are banana’s, stewed apple, boiled rice, rice pudding, baked potatoes, and yoghurt etc.

Garlic- Garlic contains a flavouring agent called alliin which acts as a natural decongestant. Garlic is also thought to act as an antioxidant which means it has an ability to destroy free radicals. Free radicals are active oxygen molecules that damage at the cellular level so using garlic liberally means you can protect against this.

Chicken soup
Chicken soup is the answer to many people dilemma of the best food to feed people who have a suppressed appetite. Known as nature’s penicillin, there are those who believe strongly in its curative powers. It’s a nourishing broth that will aid in the recovery of your energy especially if you include lots of vegetables.

Taking Vitamin C is an excellent way of helping to restore you back to health. Make sure your foods include Potatoes, green peppers, strawberries, and pineapple (all excellent sources). Eating citrus fruits are a good way of getting vitamin C into your system. Try drinking orange and grapefruit juice and taking a vitamin c supplement.

Fluids- It’s very important that you stay hydrated when you have the flu, don’t drink fizzy or sweetened drinks, also try and avoid drinks containing caffeine.

Many people like a hot beverage, so this is something you could consider. This could include herbal tea such as chamomile and peppermint. Even a cup of hot water containing lemon can be very refreshing. 

Tags: eating through flu, garlic, vitamin c