1. Chicken Soup
Yep. There’s a reason your mom always had a bowl of this at the first sign of a stuffy nose or other cold symptoms. Not only does chicken soup provide the fluids you need to help fight off viruses, but it also reduces the inflammation that triggers symptoms and leads to more colds.
Chicken noodle soup is a good source of sodium and potassium, and it’s loaded with immune-building nutrients, says Gustashaw. Carrots, celery, and onions provide vitamins A and C, while the main star of the show, chicken, packs a ton of protein and zinc.
Not to mention, warm liquids are soothing to your throat and can help relieve sinus congestion, Gustashaw notes. Plus, water is the main ingredient in soups, which means you will be replenishing much-needed fluids while enjoying this hearty and nutritious homemade meal.
2. Citrus Fruits
Vitamin C, most commonly found in citrus fruits, is an antioxidant that can help boost immunity. So start eating C if you aren’t already, and make it a part of your routine to shore up your immune system for next time. Get your dose from supplements or from vitamin-packed citrus fruits, red bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, papaya, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.
