Flu is a common respiratory virus infection, often causing fever, pain, fatigue, cough, runny nose and digestive disorders. In addition to resting and taking prescription medication, diet plays an important role in supporting the immune system and helping patients recover early.
According to Dr. Jane Kim, an internist at the University of California Medical Center (USA), "when you have the flu, the body is very prone to dehydration and micronutrient deficiency. If not compensated promptly, the recovery time will be longer.
Replenish water, supplement nutrients for the body to heal itself
Experts recommend that in the recovery phase after the flu, patients should prioritize the following 16 types of foods and drinks: filtered water; protein-saturated broth or broth; chicken soup; warm tea such as ginger tea, herbal tea, lemon tea; vitamin D-rich foods such as egg yolks, yogurt supplementing vitamin D; fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C such as oranges, grapefruits, bell peppers, tomatoes; 100% pure fruit juice without added sugar; oatmeal; dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale; cooked broccoli; bananas; low-fat, sugar-free yogurt with live beneficial bacteria; baked bread; cream sticks or ice cream without milk; garlic; and soothing spices such as cinnamon, mint, thyme.
These foods help replenish water, supplement vitamins and minerals, and limit irritation of the digestive tract, a common problem when patients have high fever or prolonged fatigue.
Eat properly to avoid prolonging the illness
In addition to choosing suitable food, patients need to avoid factors that weaken the immune system. According to Dr. Susan Barr, a nutritionist at the University of British Columbia (Canada), "alcohol, caffeine and processed foods can increase inflammation and make the body recover slower.
Foods high in fat and refined sugar easily cause digestive disorders, while milk products containing lactose can worsen diarrhea in some people with the flu. Eating too much or skipping meals is also not beneficial for the recovery process.
Besides nutrition, getting enough sleep, light exercise when health permits, reducing stress and maintaining good personal hygiene are important factors to help prevent flu recurrence. Annual flu vaccination is still considered the most effective measure to reduce the risk of disease and complications.
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