I don’t think that anyone wants to intentionally get sick (either with a common cold, the flu or covid). And as much as we try to stay healthy, we still catch a cold or the flu and there are just some breakthrough covid cases. So, what can we do to soothe ourselves when we don’t feel 100%.
Here are some tips:
Rest- For starters, take a break. We are always on overdrive and so when you start to not feel so great, stay home and rest. There is nothing better than rest for our bodies.
Eat healthy- Homemade chicken soup is a staple in my home when either my kids or my husband get even so much as the sniffles. More than other hot liquids, chicken soup has been shown to increase mucus flow and that helps flush out viruses. Interestingly, chicken soup has a certain amino acid, called cysteine, that can affect mucus flow. And if you can add potatoes to your soup, thanks to their potassium, they help to regulate fluid balance. Fluid balance is crucial when you’re fighting colds, flu or covid.
Eat oats and whole grains- When you don’t feel well, these foods that fight inflammation are helpful.
Eat fruits and veggies- Eating naturally vitamin-rich produce is important for health regardless of whether you’ve been exposed to illness. But, when you don’t feel well, eating healthy foods can help you to speed up your recovery.
Add honey to your foods- Eating honey (when added to your hot tea or foods) has antimicrobial properties that help improve the immune response.
Stay hydrated- whether drinking water, hot tea or making a frozen popsicle, keeping hydration levels high will help with immune system function.
I should add, you don’t have to wait until you don’t feel well to take care of yourself! Knowing your body is the most important way to detect how you are feeling. I hope these tips help you and your loved ones. And as always, for more information, feel free to contact me at rachel@livehealthynyc.com