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What to Eat to Treat a Cold

from Reader's Digest Magazine USA | February 2013 Updated: Aug. 06, 2019

Learn the best foods to fight, treat, and beat a cold or the flu.

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Try: Citrus and Berries

Vitamin C won’t prevent colds, but studies show that eating foods rich in it may get you back to normal more quickly. It also has a slight antihistaminic effect, which may reduce nasal symptoms.

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Try: Chicken Soup

Grandma’s favourite remedy contains cysteine, a compound that helps thin mucus and relieve congestion. A serving may also reduce inflammation in the lungs.

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Try: Yogourt

Cool, creamy yogourt and other dairy products are rich in zinc, which supports the immune system.

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Try: Spices

Garlic, turmeric, hot peppers, and other strong flavourings can help break up nasal and sinus congestion.

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Try: Red Meat and Oysters

Choose these for your protein; they’re good sources of zinc.

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Don’t Try: Alcohol

While you should drink lots of fluids when fighting a cold or flu, abstain from alcohol. Wine, beer, and liquor dilate small blood vessels, which makes the sinuses feel stuffed up and reduces the body’s ability to fight infection.

Originally Published: December 06, 2013