Broth-Based Soup
Now this one isn’t just an old wives’ tale—chicken noodle soupactually can help soothe a cold. The chicken contains an amino acid called cysteine, which helps thin mucus in the lungs, and the hot broth helps to keep nasal passages moist, prevent dehydration, and fight inflammation in the throat. Plus, chicken soup may also help the body kick a cold by stopping congestion and inflammation in their tracks.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can make our noses run and our eyes water, but they’re also effective natural decongestants.
Hot Tea
Drinking tea while you’re under the weather can help the body fight off infections, thanks to natural bacteria-fighting compounds in tea.Plus, warm liquids can soothe a sore throat and alleviate congestion, so drinks like freshly-brewed green tea or hot water with lemon are ideal for staying hydrated while helping out that stuffy nose.
Citrus Fruits
While vitamin C, found in large amounts in citrus, can’t necessarilycure the common cold, several studies suggest that it can help reduce the length or severity of colds. What’s more, fruits like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes contain flavonoids, which can help boost the immune system and are great for speeding recovery.
Popsicles
Staying properly hydrated while sick with a chest cold can keep mucus thin and help lessen congestion. While it’s generally better to eat whole fruit rather than drink it, popsicles are great as a different way to hydrate and are especially easy on the throat. Buy ones made from 100-percent whole fruit, and bonus points if youmake your own healthy popsicle.
