Let’s skip the basics here — most of us know that tea and honey all work miracles for when you’re sick. Whiskey as well, let's just say a Hot Toddy has remarkable healing powers for some.
Instead, let's focus on some whole foods you can (and should) eat while you’re sick (in all seriousness though, avoid alcohol). They really can (and will) help alleviate some of those nasty symptoms!
1. Garlic
The miracle cure. A friend told me that she woke up incredibly sick one day and she immediately ate an entire bulb of garlic raw and was better by nightfall. I am not entirely sure how the stench ever left her breath but I can vouch that it did. But let's move on to the facts:
Garlic can boost your immune system! Which is super important when you’ve caught the common cold. It is said to have anti-inflammatory benefits. Antioxidants galore, eat this raw and you will get even more. Garlic capsules are also available if you don’t want your breath to reek or can’t handle the burn like that boss lady mentioned above.
2. Coconut water
Everyone knows one of the most important things to do when you’re sick is to stay hydrated. Sugar and electrolytes are essential for your recovery and it will be easier if you chug some of this delicious and nutritious stuff.
*Also works as a spectacular remedy for too many Hot Toddys*
3. Bananas
Have you heard of the infamous BRAT diet? My mom was religious in telling reminding us of this whenever we were sick, particularly stomach sick, but this diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. They are all easy for your stomach to digest, therefore, they are great when you are sick and don’t have an appetite but need to get something down.
Bananas, in particular, have a lot of fiber and therefore can help your stomach (and therefore stools). Being potassium-rich means that eating these suckers will replace some of what was lost if you've been sweating, had loose stools (sorry for all the poop talk), or vomiting.
4. Vitamin C rich foods
Citrus fruits, no duh. But guess some foods that have more vitamin C than the obvious choice of oranges: chili peppers, red and green bell peppers, kale, broccoli, strawberries, lemons, and brussel sprouts to name a few.
DOUBLE WAMMY: Papaya not only contains more Vitamin C than oranges but also can help clear your sinuses.
5. Leafy greens
Eat broccoli, kale, cabbage, and collard greens; for they have amazing antioxidant benefits.
THINGS TO AVOID — Steer clear of caffeine.
Finally, in lieu of the flu being so severe in the U.S. this year — hence a healthy 21-year old man dying of septic shock just days after getting a flu diagnosis as well as the season total of flu deaths now reaching 20 — know the difference between a cold and the flu! Don't be afraid to go to the doctor for fear of being a 'wimp' or whatever.
