What Are The Best Things To Eat When You’re Sick?

Choosing what to eat when you don’t feel well is the last thing on anyone’s mind, especially if you don’t have an appetite for certain foods. However, specific foods can heal your body quickly and give you the energy to care for yourself. Proper nutrition is essential for gut health, which can also speed up your recovery process. Here are some of the best things to eat when you’re sick.

Nutrient-Rich Soups

There is a reason “Mom’s chicken soup” has been a favorite choice for flu, colds, and other illnesses. Bone broths and chicken soups contain various vitamins and minerals that restore mental and physical health. They also have plenty of calories and protein to replenish nutrient loss after vomiting, dehydration, or fever. 

Coconut Water

If you suffer from dehydration after vomiting, fever, or diarrhea, sipping coconut water can replenish electrolytes better than water alone. This light-tasting beverage has natural sugar, which can help replenish energy levels. If you have a cold, add it to smoothies instead of juice or plain water. 

Garlic & Honey

When you’re sick, garlic and honey are two of the best things to add to your food or drinks. They both contain antibacterial and antimicrobial properties to stimulate your immune function and reduce cold or flu symptoms. Try cooking with garlic or adding honey to hot tea for additional benefits. 

Dark, Leafy Greens

Adding greens to your plate may seem underwhelming when you feel less than your best. However, consider the nutritional powerhouse of kale, spinach, chard, and other dark greens. If greens sound unpalatable, you can add a handful to hot soups or a smoothie to boost folate, iron, vitamin C, and vitamin K.

Healthy Fats

Eliminating fat from your diet is the worst thing you can do for your health, especially when you’re sick. Colds, influenza, and other illnesses can deplete the body of nutrients, leaving you more tired. Healthy fats, like avocados, are great when sick because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can boost the immune system. 

Omega-3s

Dealing with sickness can drain your energy, making it hard to get back on your feet. Depending on the severity of your illness, including wild caught salmon in your diet can help restore your energy levels. Salmon contains omega-3s and vitamin D, which can reduce inflammation and boost immune function. It’s a softer protein option that it’s easier to digest while delivering several health benefits. 

How Do You Know Which Things Are Best To Eat?

These options are some of the best things to eat when you don’t feel well. Ultimately, the things you choose to eat and drink will depend on how you’re feeling and your type of illness. Nausea and vomiting will require softer and lighter foods than those for a cold. 

Contact The Gut Authority Today

At The Gut Authority, we aim to provide holistic health services that promote gut health and enhance overall health and wellness. Our office is in Daphne, Alabama, is close to Mobile and Pascagoula, as well as Gulf Shores and Pensacola . Contact us today to learn more about how our services can benefit your health.