1. Water
At the first sign of any illness, especially those causing fever or diarrhea, it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Water is the best option to prevent dehydration. For those who find it hard to drink, sucking on ice chips can be helpful. Remember to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks like colas and coffee, as they can lead to further dehydration.
2. Green Juice or Fruit Smoothie
Incorporate green juices or fruit smoothies into your diet to pack in essential nutrients when you’re not feeling up to eating solid foods. Spinach and kale are excellent bases for green juice, while fruits like Agbalumo (African Cherry) provide a zinc boost. Adding Bush Mango and strawberries can deliver a powerful dose of vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
3. Tea
Drinking tea not only keeps you hydrated but also offers additional health benefits. Breathing in the steam can relieve congestion, and the antioxidants in black and green teas help fight off diseases. Fresh, hot ginger tea is particularly effective when dealing with cold symptoms, as it clears congestion and soothes the throat. Some studies even suggest ginger may help prevent the common cold by blocking the virus.
4. Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is a classic remedy with proven benefits. It helps fight inflammation, promotes hydration, and gets mucus flowing. Even if you’re not up for chicken, a warm broth can provide similar benefits. Research shows that chicken soup clears nasal passages and congestion more effectively than other hot liquids, and its anti-inflammatory properties can help with cold symptoms.
5. Electrolyte Solution
When dealing with diarrhea or intense sweating, it’s important to replenish lost minerals and fluids. For example, hydration is a critical aspect of managing malaria, due to the high fever and sweating associated with the disease. An electrolyte solution can help restore the body’s balance more effectively than water alone. These solutions contain essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are crucial for maintaining proper hydration and bodily functions.
By incorporating these five drinks into your routine during illness, you can stay hydrated, support your immune system, and promote a quicker recovery.
References
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-to-eat-when-you-have-the-flu
https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ss/slideshow-foods-cold
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/fight-off-the-flu-with-nutrients
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/general/influenza_flu_homecare_guide.pdf
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0189724115300746
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-c-foods#TOC_TITLE_HDR_20
https://www.healthline.com/health/oral-rehydration-solution World Health Organization (WHO). “Malaria.” Accessed June 7, 2024. WHO Malaria.
