When you’re feeling under the weather, the right nutrition can ease symptoms and help shorten the duration of the illness. While good nutrition and proper hydration can support the body’s immune system to help fight off a cold and help you recover, eating the wrong foods could make you feel worse or suppress immune function. No single food can cure a cold, flu , or other sickness. But eating a diet rich in whole, fresh foods and staying hydrated with water, caffeine-free herbal teas, and coconut water are beneficial, natural ways to support the body during sickness . Foods to Eat When Sick The following foods may help support immune function and speed up your recovery. Chicken Soup Chicken soup or similar broth-based soups are warming and soothing for a sore throat. Broths are also hydrating and can help thin mucus. Depending on the ingredients in the soup, they may also provide anti-inflammatory benefits and support immune system func...
Life is hard. Every day it seems like a new challenge appears to test your patience. You may not realize that chronic stress can also lead to long-term health complications. Living in a constant state of fight-or-flight tells your body to produce too much cortisol which can lead to weight gain, diabetes, mood swings, fatigue, and many other conditions. ( 1 ) While it’s important to take steps to manage stress, certain calming herbs can help strengthen your body’s stress response. Adaptogens are some of the best calming herbs because studies show they might make your body and mind more resilient to external stress. Keep in mind that adaptogens don’t work like prescription drugs for anxiety in that they kick in instantly. Instead, they need a few weeks to build up in your system before you notice the effects. When you need something in a pinch, however, other herbs and essential oils – like lavender oil – can ease symptoms almost instantly. 1...