Sometimes we feel invincible. Other times…oh no, did that person just cough? Is that a throat tickle? Yup, it’s cold and flu season—and it’s coming for us all. The proverbial doctor’s orders? Soothing dishes full of ginger, garlic and immune-boosting ingredients to get us back on our feet (or at least make us feel nourished while we recoup). Lucky for you, we’ve got 20 recipes for cold and flu season that will cure you one bite at a time.
You know you should maintain a balanced diet with a range of vitamins and minerals, sleep well, exercise regularly and keep your stress level as low as possible just for your overall wellbeing, but there's an added bonus to maintaining these habits (beyond bragging rights): They make your body more prepared to fight infection, says Forbes Health. Once you're sick, foods that are rich in antioxidants and decrease inflammation can potentially help your immune system. Think broth-based soups, citrus fruits, ginger, yogurt and hydrating fluids, like tea and electrolyte drinks. (Note that no food is a cure-all once you're already infected, though; ideally, you'd build these foods into your diet before you're under the weather to maximize their effect, says HuffPost UK.)
