28 December 2023 , 16:22
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There's nothing worse than waking up with a cold, especially during the festive period.
But mixing with loved ones over Christmas can provide the perfect breeding ground for bugs to spread. Brits across the nation have reported falling in with a 'brutal' cold that's left them bedbound, which isn't exactly the best start to the New Year.
If you're trying to fight off an infection this winter, what you put on your plate may help you recover quicker. Of course, no food is going to be the perfect panacea to those nasty viruses, but giving your immune system a helping hand is always a good idea.
Registered nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert has shared six foods you should incorporate into your daily diet whenever you're feeling under the weather. Surprisingly, some of the foods may even be your guilty pleasure.
Garlic
Speaking to the Sun, Lambert explained how garlic has 'microbial properties'. "There's some research to suggest this element of garlic may help to combat bacteria and viruses commonly associated with illnesses like colds and flu," she said.
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Turns out, your late-night garlic bread feast isn't that bad, after all. According to Healthline, garlic may also reduce the risk of becoming sick in the first place, as well as how long you stay sick and the severity of symptoms.
Chocolate
Yes, we've found another excuse to eat chocolate - although it's only really dark chocolate that may help with your immune system. Lambert says foods rich in antioxidants such as blueberries, spinach, nuts, green tea, and dark chocolate can 'contribute to reducing oxidative stress -supporting the immune system and easing inflammation'.
Over time, the effects of oxidative stress may contribute to a slew of serious diseases including heart disease and diabetes. A 2017 review of literature published in Frontiers in Immunology found that eating chocolate may encourage anti-inflammatory activity.
Ginger
It's no surprise that ginger is on the list. The ingredient is often used in many medicines and has a long history of being used to treat a variety of illnesses. Lambert says ginger can help with 'nausea' and stomach issues. It also tastes great in a curry or in a soothing bed time cuppa.
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Manuka Honey
Known for its high price tag, Manuka Honey is often hailed for its antibacterial properties. Originating from the Manuka bush in New Zealand, the nectar contains methylglyoxal -which helps support the respiratory and immune system. Holland & Barret, which sell the superfood, says Manuka honey increases the release of cytokines which are vital for keeping your immune system healthy.
Echinacea
You may not have heard of this before, but Echinacea is a 'herbal remedy' that can help with reducing those nasty symptoms of cold and flu. "Some studies suggest that Echinacea may help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms by stimulating the immune system and offering mild anti-inflammatory effects," Lambert said. Echinacea is a type of flower found only in eastern and central North America. However, many retailers stock the plant in tablet and liquid form - such as Holland & Barrett.