Winter and rainy seasons are something that we usually dread about. Not because we get drenched or have to feel the spine chilling cold, but for the aftermath of it. It is true that most of us get affected by flu as soon as the onset of winter or rainy season arrives or even during certain weather change. Cold and flu are the most common illness we deal in our day to day life.
Dealing with cold or flu can really be frustrating as it stagnates our day to day work. It also leaves us with a low feeling for all day. It is important for us to keep a check on what all we eat or drink because, even that might trigger flu, leading us to get bed ridden. Taking care of what we drink and eat might help prevent or treat these common illnesses.
There are no instant cures for cold and flu, but certain home remedies and practices will definitely helps you in reaching the goal from getting rid of the flu. Interestingly, certain simple diets and home medicines are very beneficial when taken during the time of flu.
All we have to do is increase our immunity against these common illnesses. So, we need to eat right and healthy foods. But many of us fail to know what exactly we should add to our diet during the hard times when we are infected with flu and cold.
Here are few tasty and effective simple diets to ward off flu:
Herbal tea anytime is good for keeping flu at bay. By adding few tulsi leaves and crushed ginger along with black pepper while preparing tea. This brings much relief for cold.
Main source of citrus fruits is vitamin C. So, we need to consume citrus fruits as it also helps in increasing our immunity. Increase vitamin C intake is especially important if you smoke, as smoking increases your risk of catching a cold. Citrus fruits are not the only foods high in vitamin C. Potatoes, green peppers, strawberries and pineapple can help in healing common cold and flu.
Garlic is a great source of antioxidant and believed to prevent heart disease. But, garlic should be used liberally to your favourite foods.
Many believe its called nature's penicillin and it always stands on top of the list for its curative powers. Hot chicken soup helps in clearing clogged airways and gives more energy. To make it more interesting, chop in few of your favourite veggies including garlic for that extra healing power and it always satisfies your taste buds.
Who does not love spicy food when they are suffering from flu just to activate those tastebuds. Few people swear by spicy sauces to help ease congestion. So, try to cook Indian or other cuisine which contain more garlic and chillies.
Medicinal value of ginger is immense and many people say that ginger root helps treating cough and fever that often accompany cold and flu. The best way of using ginger is by adding it to a cup of ginger tea.
It's very important that we stay hydrated and have plenty of liquids. Instead of having aerated or packaged drinks we should have a glass of fresh juice. Even herbal and lemon tea is not a bad idea.
These vitamins have been known as healing nutrients, and foods that are high in proteins are great. Have good amount of fish, milk, fortified soy milk, cereals, spinach and turkey.
Yes! sleeping not only makes us feel fresh, but it also heals us from cold. Having a good sleep of 8 hours benefits you from getting rid of the frustrating cold.
Adding more foods that are rich in zinc to your diet is yet another good diet tip for preventing the common cold. It also enhances the immune system. Oysters, red meat and poultry are best source. Even nuts, legumes and grains are great source.