The Best (And Worst) Foods To Help You Recover When You're Sick

When you've got a cold (very popular around this time of year!) or stomach problems, eating might be the last thing you feel like doing. To recover as fast as possible, though, you need to nourish your body even more than when you're healthy. To that end, Greatist has compiled a list of the best and worst foods for when you're sick.

The article breaks down the best items by category: cold-like symptoms and stomach problems. You've no doubt already know about chicken soup and hot tea, but as with their guide to the best drinks for every occasion, Greatist offers the research behind each food. For example:

Citrus Fruits

It's a myth that vitamin C can cure the common cold, and there isn't actually much scientific evidence behind the theory that it'll reduce the length or severity of colds, either [5]. However, while citrus fruits might not be a cure-all, the soft white layer of skin found on oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and limes does contain flavonoids, which can help boost the immune system and are great for speeding recovery [6].

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 fruit rather than drink it,popsicles are great as a different way to hydrate and are especially easy on the throat. Bonus points if they're 100 percent fruit juice, or made from whole fruit!

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can make our noses run and our eyes water, but they're alsoeffective natural decongestants. Eating chili peppers, wasabi, or horseradish can help relieve the symptoms of congestion [7] [8].

Perhaps even more important, Greatist advises us to stick to a regular eating schedule even when you're sick, because you need those calories to get better. Try eating smaller portions throughout the day if a big meal turns you off.

Check out the full list of nourishing foods at the post below.

The Best and Worst Foods to Eat When You're Sick | Greatist

Photo by mmmarilyn.