Chicken Soup Is Good for More Than the Soul
Chicken soup is a cold and flu remedy that has been used for centuries -- and with just cause. Dubbed “nature’s penicillin,” this popular soup is well known for its healing properties. When chicken is cooked, it releases an amino acid called cysteine, which is chemically similar to a common bronchitis drug, which can help the body fight off infections and prevent complications. The hot broth can help clear clogged airways and thins out the mucus while containing nutrients to give the body the energy it needs to battle invading germs.
To give your soup an extra kick, try adding some garlic or ginger. Garlic is well known for its antibiotic properties, and it may help work as an antiviral agent because of its sulphur-containing compounds. It’s also particularly effective in treating upper respiratory viral infections because of its ability to clear mucus from the lungs. Fresh ginger can help ease stubborn coughs, soothe upset stomachs and may even help reduce fever.
Boost Your Zinc Intake
When you feel the symptoms of a flu bug coming on, take supplements that give your body a boost of zinc, which has been shown to help shorten symptoms. Your body needs the mineral zinc to produce germ-fighting white blood cells, so you’re amping up your bio army in the fight against the invading virus. Be careful not to overdo it. Studies show that more than 50 mg a day of zinc can have a reverse effect, suppressing, rather than boosting, your immune system.
Know When You Need Help
If you have any of the following signs and symptoms, which may indicate that you have a serious case of the flu or are developing complications from it, call your doctor to get professional medical help:
● Fever above 101.5
● Shaking chills
● Persistent cough with phlegm, especially if the phlegm changes colors
● Bloody mucus or phlegm
● Shortness of breath with normal daily activities or when resting
● Chest pain when you breathe or talk
● Prolonged inability to keep down food or fluids