The Best and Worst Foods to Eat When You're Sick

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As humans, our body gets weak sometimes and we all can relate to that awful feeling people experience during the flu season. On that note, here are the best and worst foods to eat when you're sick. We don't usually have much of an appetite when we are feeling sick but there are some food that are worse to be consuming at this time and it is good that you are also informed about them, so you know what to avoid. This article will help you what to stock in your pantry, so you are prepared in case your nose starts running and your fever starts getting high.

For our body to normally function whenever we get sick, it is a must that we take in calories. Energy giving foods are the ones that you must have around to recover quickly. To fuel a sick body with all the right food is essential. The right food also helps you to maintain good health. When you're down with flu, keep in mind to stick to your regular eating schedules because not having the right amount of calories can hinder your body's capacity to recuperate. In addition to this, there are studies that say having a low calorie intake when you are sick could also make the symptoms worse, which would also prolong your medication.

But we all know that being sick will affect your appetite, but it shouldn't be an excuse to not eat the right things and especially not have proper hydration. You don't want to binge on junk food, nor will you have the desire. Eating small portions of food will do, as long as you eat frequently or when your body tells you you're actually hungry.

The first thing that you could make is a broth-based soup. Broths are so healthy! They are also easy on the digestive system and stomach. A chicken noodle soup is perfect to ease your cold and no, it's not a myth. This food really works and here is why. The amino acid known as cysteine that is present in chicken, contributes to reducing the mucus contaminating your lungs. Meanwhile, the hot broth will help you decongest your blocked nasal area. It also helps in fighting any inflammation that could happen in your throat and possible dehydration in case you forget to take in the right amount of liquids.

When fighting a cold, it's a must that you always have some citrus fruits around. It's not the Vitamin C found in these fruits that will actually help in curing your cold, but it is the flavonoids that are found in the soft white layer of these fruits' skin that will help strengthen your immune system. So keep some of the healthy fruits around.

Have you ever heard the old wives tale, starve a fever, feed a cold? While it's simply not true. The truth is that when we are sick our bodies actually need more calories to keep it functioning properly. Whenever your temperature rises, your metabolism is elevated, so if you have a fever and you are not feeding yourself, your body isn't getting the fuel it needs to help properly support your immune system, so eat up, just don't over do it.

This is just one of the healthy articles you will find on the Greatist. The site that wants you to enjoy healthy eating whenever you can, but also knows that it's okay to enjoy treats here and there. Because healthy living is about being happy too! The Greatist wants you to be your best self, healthy and happy, and not to set unrealistic goals for yourself, like trying to lose 5 pounds in a week. By making healthier decisions here and there, you create a positive lifestyle, one that you can practice all the time, while not setting yourself up to fail.

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