A nutritionist has highlighted that certain foods can shorten the duration of illnesses, including colds and flu, by up to three days. Kavitha Krishnan from the Cleveland Clinic explains that vitamins and nutrients found in everyday foods can speed up the healing process.
Zinc is particularly beneficial for respiratory illnesses. A 2016 study in Michigan found that zinc lozenges reduced symptom length by three days. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, cheddar cheese, pumpkin seeds, cereal, and lentils.
Vitamin C from oranges and bell peppers can lessen the severity and duration of a cold. Vitamins A, E, and D also support the immune system. Vitamin A is found in cooked spinach, vitamin E in cereal, and vitamin D in salmon, shiitake mushrooms, and egg yolks.
For stomach ailments, bland foods like toast, bananas, rice, and applesauce are recommended. These low-fibre starches are easy to digest and help limit bowel movements.
Hydration is crucial; water, broth, and herbal tea are best. Men should aim for 15 cups of fluid daily, women 11 cups, to regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration.
