If you are sick and wondering what foods can help ease your flu and cold symptoms, then read on to know more. Eating certain foods when you are sick can help you recover faster as they contain antioxidants and other nutrients that your body needs to get well and to fight the infection. Here’s a list of what foods help reduce cold and flu symptoms and help you recover faster:

1. Chicken soup
This is one of the most recommended home remedies for the common cold or flu. It is a powerhouse of vitamins, proteins, minerals, and other nutrients. The broth or soup provides the body with the fluid and electrolytes it needs to be adequately hydrated. Chicken soup also contains N-acetyl-cysteine, an amino acid that can help clear mucus. It can inhibit neutrophils or white blood cells that cause stuffy nose and coughing. So if you are thinking about what foods kill cold and flu, then this one should be at the top of the list.

2. Garlic
This medicinal herb has many beneficial properties, including antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It stimulates the immune system, helping you recover from a cold or flu. Garlic extract supplements can decrease the severity of symptoms of colds and flu. Hence, in addition to enhancing the flavor of your chicken soup, garlic can also make your broth more effective in getting rid of a cold.

3. Tea
When considering options for what foods kill cold , you can also list warm beverages such as tea. Warm or hot tea can help clear mucus from sinuses. Tea can also help you stay hydrated and relieve congestion. Polyphenols found in tea are natural substances that have many health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Certain herbal teas such as Echinacea speed up recovery from a cold and flu. You can also look for teas that are formulated to relieve cough and throat pain.

4. Yogurt
A rich source of calcium, vitamins, and minerals, yogurt also contains beneficial probiotics. These can help prevent the occurrence of colds or aid in the recovery process. However, some individuals have reported increased mucus production when they consumed dairy products such as yogurt. In that case, you can take a probiotic supplement. Do consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

5. Fruits
Fruits contain many vitamins and minerals that help boost the immune system. Some fruits also contain anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid. These compounds give the fruits their vibrant colors and also have powerful anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties. Hence, if you are thinking about what foods kill cold, then you can consider fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries. You can enjoy these fruits fresh or frozen by adding them to a bowl of oatmeal or making them into a smoothie.

In addition to consuming the above foods that can help you recover faster, ensure that you get sufficient rest and drink plenty of water.