Bottom Line:

When you’re under the weather and just trying to get through the day, necessities like food are often the last things on your mind. You just want to feel better, and, honestly, even your favourite foods seem unappetising when your nose is clogged, your throat is sore and you can’t taste a thing. However, making it a point to eat healthy foods while you’re sick can help speed up your recovery and may help you stay better longer.

Why it Matters:

Food fuels your body, and, especially when you’re sick, it’s important to give your digestive system a break by eating easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods. You’ll recover faster, and your immune system will become stronger. Here are a few ideas to get started…

-       Start with soup, as bone broth contains minerals that can help boost your immune system.

-       Consider adding yoghurt with probiotics that can help improve your sleep, digestion, and overall immunity.

-       Stick to lean meats, especially those with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce any nagging inflammation.

Next Steps:

Those same healthy foods that help you recover faster can keep you feeling and functioning better all year round. This week, try creating a simple calendar outlining your meals. Emphasise healthy, home-cooked meals which will strengthen your immune system (and possibly save you money!).

Science Source: Chicken soup inhibits neutrophil chemotaxis in vitro. Chest. Oct 2000

Probiotics and immune health. Current Opinion in Gastroenterology. Oct 2011

Omega-3 fatty acids in inflammation and autoimmune diseases. The Journal of the American College of Nutrition. Dec 2002

Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings and Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 10 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).