The Influenza virus is an illness that can be deadly to some people. Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, and body aches. It is important to get a flu shot to prevent this illness from taking over. A cold vs. flu is determined by the symptoms. Colds happen over time while flu symptoms come on suddenly. It is important to eat properly when you have the flu.

What should you be eating to help reduce flu symptoms?

1. Broth
Broth is a great food to eat when you are sick with the flu. The type of broth does not matter as much as how often you eat it as you should have one cup every hour or so to make sure you stay hydrated and to help ease a sore throat.

2. Chicken soup
Like broth chicken soup helps to keep you hydrated and provides extra protein and nutrients your body needs from the vegetables in it. Eating chicken soup while you are sick can help aid you in your recovery.

3. Leafy green vegetables
Leafy green vegetables can help boost your immune system by providing your body with important nutrients and vitamins. Greens such as spinach and kale have vitamin C which provides your immune system with a boost to help rid your body of the flu faster.

4. Pure garlic
Garlic works as a natural alternative to cold medicines due to its immune system boosting properties. If you can not eat garlic by itself, try adding it to broth or taking a garlic supplement.

5. Live cultures in yogurt
The live cultures in yogurt help aid to boost your immune system while also providing protein that your body needs to get better. Yogurt can also help a sore throat by coating it and making it feel more comfortable. Any flavor is okay to eat as long as it says it contains live cultures.

6. Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains vitamin E which is an immune system booster and aids in recovery. Oatmeal is also a healthy food and contains whole grains, fiber, and protein which can help give you the nutrition your body needs when you are suffering from the flu virus.

7. Ginger
Drinking ginger can be used as a decongestant for your stuffy nose and to relieve the soreness in your throat. It can also reduce the feeling of nausea that can come from an upset stomach.

8. Citrus fruits
Eating citrus fruits can help to boost your immune system. Fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and pineapple all have benefits that can help your body fight off the flu virus.

While the flu virus makes it hard to eat or drink it is important to consume fluids and vitamins to help your body recover. Getting the flu shot can reduce your chances of getting the flu and should be used as a preventive measure. Be sure to stay hydrated and allow yourself to get plenty of rest as you recover from this illness.