Is chicken soup really the best curefor the flu? Or is there anything else that we could use to enrich the soup and fight the flu at the same time?
The cold season is here and most people turn to the chicken soup when they notice the first symptoms of flu. But is this the only food that can beat the flu?
So, what is the truth behind the chicken soup?
There are several reasons why is the chicken soup great remedy for a sick body. Chicken soup contains many different vegetables that are ideal for fighting the flu. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the production of mucus and the swelling in the throat. Besides, chicken soup temporarily increases body temperature, which also helps fight infections. Chicken soup considers as a real medicine for the soul, especially on winter days, and we all know that what is good for the soul, is also good for the body.
But, let’s see what other ingredients we could add to enrich the chicken soup, that are also great in fighting the flu.
Carrots
According to a wellness study conducted in New York, yellow and orange vegetables, such as carrots, contain large amounts of beta-carotene. During the process, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A and helps cells strengthen the immune system. Vitamin A is also known to regulate immune responses and that is why it is called “anti-inflammation” vitamin. By aiding in immune tolerance, vitamin A is crucial for preventing inflammation and autoimmune disease.
Ginger
The natural ingredient found in the fresh ginger root can greatly help in the fight against flu. When it comes to cold and flu, ginger root helps relief symptoms like sore throat, muscle fatigue and congestion because it aids in activating white blood cells and protects them from damage. If you want to reduce the chronic inflammation and to strengthen the body’s defense, you can use ginger root as a spice in your chicken soup and you will be surprised by its effect.
Black pepper
Often underestimated and forgotten, black pepper is called “king of spices” for a reason. Its main antioxidant component, the piperine, is excellent in fighting the flu and reducing the inflammation. Black pepper contains high concentration of piperine and because of that can help reduce chronic inflammation. And while many of us add black pepper to chicken soup, only few know about its medicinal properties.
Lemons
As we know, lemon and chicken soup are two ingredients that go hand in hand. There is no delicious chicken soup without a few drops of lemon juice. In fact, one lemon provides around 50% of the daily recommended needs for vitamin C, which strengthens the defense against colds and viruses. Lemon in warm water with honey, when consumed on daily basis, can relief the severity of cold and flu symptoms. But lemon with chicken soup is something that makes everyone’s mouth water.
Carrots, ginger, black pepper, lemons… They all work in the fight against the flu. But chicken soup combined with all these ingredients, is definitely the best cure for the flu.
