Cold and flu are contagious infections that can affect people of all ages. These infections are characterized by symptoms like headache, mild fever, runny nose, sore throat, and body pain. Although people heavily depend on over-the-counter medicines to treat them, a nutritious diet can offer immense relief and quick recovery. Read on to know more about some foods and drinks that help treat cold and flu:

• Chicken soup
  Chicken soup is a go-to remedy for cold and flu, as it can decongest the nasal passages and keep you warm from the inside. Additionally, the salt in the broth saves you from suffering extreme dehydration, which is especially helpful if you’re also dealing with diarrhea. On the other hand, the high protein content boosts the immunity system.
• Fruit juices
  Among the various foods and drinks that help treat cold and flu, fruit juices are widely recommended if you often catch a cold. If you’re down with cold or the flu, chances are that you have little or no appetite, so you can drink your nutrients instead of eating them. Additionally, sweating due to fever makes the body lose water and electrolytes, so increase your intake of fresh apple juice, orange juice, and mixed-fruit juice to replenish your body with necessary vitamins and minerals.
• Eggs
  Eggs are excellent sources of vitamin D, a mineral that helps strengthen immunity. Studies say that people who consume a daily serving of eggs are less likely to catch a cold or contract any other upper respiratory infections during the winter months.
• Broccoli
  The list of foods and drinks that help treat cold and flu is incomplete without broccoli and various other cruciferous vegetables that can improve immunity. Sulforaphane, a chemical present in these veggies, helps amplify the production of antioxidants present in the immune cells, helping the body combat the harmful free radicals.
• Green tea
  Green tea is beneficial for weight loss, but not it can also assist in fighting cold and flu. It is packed with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that enhance the body’s ability to fight the infection. You can sip on a cup of green tea twice or thrice a day for significant improvement in your overall health.
• Wild salmon
  Foods and drinks that help treat cold and flu also include wild salmon. Salmon is rich in zinc, a nutrient that reduces the common cold symptoms. It is especially important for kids to consume foods rich in zinc to prevent cold and flu. Also, it ensures speedy recovery if at all you catch a cold.

To ensure quick recovery from cold and flu, you need plenty of rest and a diet that contains nutritious food. Mentioned here are a few nutrient-dense foods and drinks that help treat cold and flu while boosting immunity and strengthening your body.