Find out if that chicken soup is as good for the sniffles as it is for the soul.

We’ve rounded up some of the best foods to eat when you have a cold.

There isn’t a magic food that will cure a cold.

Old-Fashioned Chicken Noodle Soup

Credit: Blaine Moats

Were dishing up the best foods to eat when you have a cold.

Each item on the list packs in as many of thoseimmune-supportingqualities as possible per bite.

However, there are some studies that support the benefits of certain foods to help with colds.

Healthy soups can possibly help lower inflammation and reduce congestion.

Bonus points if said soup calls for garlic on the ingredient list.

Tea

Like soup, hot tea can help reduce nasal congestion.

Tea also contains polyphenols, Brooking says.

These natural substances found in plants have a large number of potential health benefits, including antioxidant andanti-inflammatoryeffects.

Cozy up to one or all of thesehot tea recipesas you rest and recover.

Ifhoney-spiked teadoesnt sound appealing, start your day withOrange-Honey Overnight Oats.

Choose from popular fruits like oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and tangerines.

Common berries include blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries.

Get your fix in ourHoney Fruit Salad,Chicken and Strawberry Panzanella, orBlackberry-Ginger Overnight Bulgur.

Others lead to dehydration, which can impede the healing process, theMayo Clinicsays.

If youre in the mood for crispy, fast food-style cuisine, try these tastyair-fryer recipes.

The Bottom Line

The best Rx to feel better fast?

Rest, time, and a well-balanced menu to support recovery.

To promote healing, limit added sugars, foods high in saturated fat, and alcohol.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

April 24, 2024.

Accessed July 31, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/common-cold/about/index.html.

2017;15(1):73. doi: 10.1186/s12967-017-1175-y.

2015;37(2):159-70

Upstate Medical University.Staying hydrated is important in sickness and in health