When you have influenza A, your body often experiences symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal congestion, loss of appetite and decreased energy. This is the time when the immune system must be active to fight the virus, so nutrition plays a very important role in the recovery process.
The first and most important step is to supplement enough water. Patients are susceptible to dehydration due to fever, sweating and poor appetite. Warm drinks such as filtered water, electrolyte water, lemon honey water or ginger water help soothe the throat, reduce cough and support detoxification. Avoid caffeinated or carbonated drinks as they can cause further dehydration.
In addition, foods rich in vitamin C and antioxidants are essential. Oranges, tangerines, kiwis, strawberries, bell peppers or dark green vegetables help increase resistance and reduce the severity of symptoms. Vitamins A and E from pumpkin, carrots, cashews, and almonds are also beneficial for the immune system.
Patients should increase easy-to-digest proteins such as chicken, fish, eggs, tofu and beans. Protein helps regenerate immune cells and repair damaged tissue. Porridge, soup, and soup are also suitable choices because they are easy to eat, easy to digest, and provide light energy.
In addition, foods containing zinc, selenium and omega-3 such as seafood, nuts, and salmon help reduce inflammation, supporting a faster recovery process. Yogurt and fermented foods containing probiotics are also beneficial for the digestive system, which is easily affected when patients use medication.
People with influenza A should avoid fried foods, fast food, sweets, alcohol and dishes that are too spicy because they can irritate the mucous membranes, making symptoms worse.
Combining reasonable nutrition, adequate rest and prescribed medication will help patients improve their health and shorten the duration of the disease.
