The Flu Diet: How To Help Your Body Fight The Flu

Published: 15th June 2011
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Influenza or flu is a viral infection which impacts the respiratory system. It can affect any person but young children, older grown ups and individuals with a compromised immune system are most vulnerable. Signs or symptoms of flu are similar as to that of colds like runny nose, sore throat and sneezing. However, individuals with flu may feel significantly worse simply because it can accompany fever, chills, headaches, dry cough, fatigue and weakness. Some young children with the flu may also have diarrhea and vomiting.

Medical doctors may recommend some interventions to fight the flu, but there are methods which can be carried out at home, in order to attain a speedy recovery. Because your body is trying to battle flu symptoms, it is vital to consciously eat the foods that can help boost your immunity. After all, a healthy immune system can help stop or combat infections.

Proteins are vital simply because it can strengthen the body. The Food and Drug Administration suggests that adults eat 50 grams of protein every single day. Pregnant and nursing females may even need much more protein daily. It is particularly good for individuals with the flu because high in protein foods, also consist of Vitamins B6 and B12. These vitamins are good immune system boosters. Rich sources of protein include poultry, lean meats, fish, legumes, dairy products, eggs, and nuts. You can also eat turkey, beans, spinach, potatoes and enriched cereal grains because these are excellent sources of Vitamin B6.


Research has also proven that flavonoids seen in some fruits can also help in the immune system response. Flavonoids can be seen grapefruit, lemons, oranges and limes. It may also be smart to eat watermelon due to the fact that it contains glutathione. Glutathione is a powerful anti-oxidant and it can help strengthen the immune system. It can also be seen in food items such as broccoli, cabbage and collards.

Chicken soup is also really great for individuals with the flu. Research has proven that chicken soup can help minimize symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Thus, chicken soup can help improve one's immunity and help ward off infection faster. It is also essential to raise the fluid consumption. Even so, try to stay away from dairy items like milk because it may increase mucus production. Apart from that, it may worsen signs and symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting.

Because vomiting may occur with the flu, increasing your fluid consumption is required. Orange juice is great due to the fact it is a rich supply of Vitamin C and folic acid. These vitamins and nutrients are essential to promote a speedy recovery. You may also increase your fluid consumption by consuming Gatorade, ginger ale, clear broths, ice pops and gelatin. Try to take in small quantities at intervals. If you are able to tolerate it, gradually rise the amount of fluid you take in. Warm beverages must also be preferred over cold beverages because it can help in opening congested airways.


Most individuals with the flu may also have diarrhea. It is then essential not to eat foods, which may aggravate the upset stomach. Try to stick with clear liquids first to allow the tummy to settle. As your situation should improve, you can try general liquids then the BRAT diet. It is short for bananas, rice, applesauce and toast. The BRAT diet plan is excellent for your tummy simply because it can easily be digested.

Quite a few individuals including children get the flu because it is really common. To decrease the chance of its occurrence, immunizations are required. To add to that, it is also smart to maintain a healthy way of life with a balanced diet plan, and lots of rest and exercise. A lot of the time, it is much better to prevent an illness from taking place than to suffer its myriad of symptoms.


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