16 Comfort Foods to Survive Cold and Flu Season 

Feeling sick? Then dark chocolate might be just  what you need to get you going. 

Feeling sick? Colds and flu can be very nasty, especially when they take away your appetite. 

Between the tissues and  endless naps, it's important to maintain the strength that helps your body fight off those nasty viruses. Junk food may seem appealing, but it's not the best choice to support your recovery.  Viruses are the culprits behind colds and flu. Therefore, choosing foods with antiviral properties can speed up the recovery process. Instead of reaching for  greasy pizza or sugary ice cream, consider foods rich in important nutrients like protein, B vitamins, copper, iron, vitamin C, and zinc. These nutrients are essential for your immune system and  help prevent complications. 

Certain things like caffeine and fatty foods should be avoided. Alcohol and caffeine cause dehydration and weaken the immune system, while foods high in fat and fiber can worsen gastrointestinal issues. Proper hydration is crucial to flush out toxins and support the body's healing process. 

Looking for the best foods to eat when you're feeling unwell? Check out these expert recommendations for your next grocery shopping trip. 

Chicken Soup 

 Your mom's long-lasting cure-all for  stuffy noses. Chicken soup is more than just a comfort food, it's packed with nutrients that support the immune system. A mix of chicken, vegetables, and pasta soothes the throat and reduces inflammation while providing essential sodium, potassium, and vitamins. Citrus Fruits  

  Vitamin C is important for strengthening the immune system.Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits, as well as vitamin-rich fruits like bell peppers, broccoli, and sweet potatoes, are excellent sources of this immunity-boosting nutrient. 

Garlic, Onions, and Leeks 

 These spicy vegetables not only make your meals taste better, but they also have antiviral properties. Garlic in particular is known for its allicin content, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects. 

Ginger Tea 

 Ginger is a cold-fighting powerhouse, thanks to its active ingredients that fight cold viruses and reduce inflammation. Drinking a cup of ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to your drinks can provide great relief. 

Honey 

 Honey is not only a sweet treat, but also a natural remedy for sore throats. Its enveloping action soothes inflammation, while its antioxidant and antibacterial properties help fight infection. 

Kefir  

This fermented dairy product is rich in probiotics that support the immune system. Kefir also provides more protein than yogurt and contains important nutrients that aid  digestion and recovery. Brazil nuts 

Brazil nuts are rich in selenium, which strengthens immune function. Selenium helps the body produce cytokines that help eliminate viruses. Other  foods rich in selenium include seafood and certain types of fish. 

Mushrooms 

 Mushrooms, especially those rich in vitamin D, are excellent for supporting the immune system. These compounds help the body fight infections and improve overall health. Carbohydrates 

Carbohydrates are a good source of energy when you're not feeling well. If your appetite is low, choose easy-to-digest alternatives like pretzels and crackers that can keep your energy levels high. 

Fatty fish 

Fatty fish like salmon are rich in vitamin D, which helps maintain your immune system. It's also good for bone health and overall health. 

Tomatoes 

A vegan alternative to chicken soup is tomato soup. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that fights infection. 

Leafy greens 

Leafy greens are rich in vitamin E, which supports the immune system and reduces the severity of respiratory infections. Including them in your diet can aid in recovery.  Popsicles 

If you're having trouble staying hydrated, popsicles can help. They offer a refreshing way to soothe a sore throat and keep you hydrated. 

Dark Chocolate 

 A small amount of dark chocolate can help reduce inflammation caused by a cold. Theobromine content has been proven to have a positive effect. 

Fennel 

With its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, fennel is a useful addition to your diet if you're suffering from cold symptoms. Its essential oils  provide relief. 

Elderberry Extract 

 Elderberries are rich in anthocyanins, which help fight  respiratory infections. Elderberry extract may shorten the duration of the flu and relieve symptoms faster than other treatments.