The symptoms of cold and flu usually get better within a week or two. Usually, no treatments are needed. But when you eat a healthy diet while you are down with cold and flu, it can help you ensure that you recover from the symptoms as early as possible. So, here are the foods to eat and avoid during cold and flu.

What can be consumed

Spicy foods: While the flu is toward the end, it can increase the congestion in the chest. Eating spices such as horseradish and hot pepper can allow you to fight the congestion and allow better breathing. But make sure that you are eating spicy food only when you are not experiencing a sore throat.

Coconut water: When the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed, it can be the cause of an upset stomach. When you drink coconut water, it allows tannins – a compound present in it – to fight the inflammation. Coconut water is also loaded with essential minerals such as potassium and sodium. Therefore, it can help in rehydrating the body you have experienced the symptoms of flu such as vomiting or diarrhea. It was found in a study that coconut water was able to hydrate the body as effectively as a sports drink. It does not contain any added sugar and is good for overall health.

Tea: When you are fighting the symptoms, it is important to know what foods to eat and avoid during cold and flu. Staying hydrated is essential when cold and flu affect you and for that, herbal teas are one of the best remedies. They give you a refreshing feeling and taking in the steam allows you to get rid of the mucus build up in the sinuses. If you are experiencing a sore throat, take some turmeric powder and add it to hot water. Drinking turmeric tea will have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects on the body.

What should be avoided

Candies: Candies are loaded with sugar, which can prove to be harmful to your health, especially when you are suffering from cold and flu. Sugar can lead to inflammation in the body and decreases immunity by making the white blood cells weak. It is important to have these cells since they are the ones responsible for fighting the infection.

Milk: Another food that you must stay away from during cold and flu is milk. It can thicken the mucus, making the allergens stick to the system for a longer duration. Particularly whole milk has been associated with increased mucus production. This is not something you would want when you are suffering from the symptoms of cold and flu.

Ice cream: Ice creams are usually made from dairy, which means that it contains saturated fats that can trigger inflammation. Also, it contains sugar in high quantity, which is another ingredient that can cause inflammation and weaken the immune system.