Common Cold Diet

A cold is one of the most common afflictions, affecting millions of men and women around the world. It is also referred to, as a common cold, by most people, since almost everyone has suffered from this minor ailment at some time or the other. A cold is generally characterized by symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, throat irritation, tiredness and perhaps even loss of appetite. The common cold symptoms generally disappear within 5 to 7 days, without any treatment. However, at times, a cold could mark the beginning of allergies or infections, in which case medical treatment may be required.

There is no medication as such for treating a cold; people usually rely on home remedies or common cold diet treatment options.

Common cold diet treatment is very effective in reducing the uncomfortable symptoms of a cold, even though it does not really address the cause of the problem or cure the cold. However, there are many foods and recipes that can help alleviate the symptoms of a common cold to a great extent. These foods mainly include warm liquids, which soothe the throat and dilute the mucus blocking the nasal passages, so that the body can expel it easily. In addition to that, people suffering from a severe cold tend to get drained out quite easily and therefore, the common diet treatment should be aimed at increasing strength and energy in the body. Given below is a sample of a common cold diet treatment menu for one day:

Breakfast: Oatmeal in warm water, topped with fresh berries, orange juice, whole grain toast and hot tea, preferably decaf
Lunch: Chicken / vegetable soup (without any dairy), tomato juice, orange slices, some green salad and hot tea
Dinner: Chicken noodle soup, mixed steamed veggies, whole wheat pasta in tomato sauce and hot tea
Snacks: Warm milk or slices of fruit

Working out also boosts the energy and makes it easier for the body to fight off the germs causing a cold. Before following a common cold diet and exercise routine, it is best to consult a doctor and get a go ahead.

Common Cold Foods

Warm liquids, like broth, herbal tea, soup and warm water are regarded as some of the best foods for common cold by people, as well as health experts. Fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and lean meat are also regarded as foods to fight the common cold. Some of the most healthy common cold foods to eat include:

Foods that are high in beta carotene and other carotenoids, such as oranges, tomatoes, melons, squash, grapefruit, leafy greens, mangoes, guava, carrots, corn, cantaloupe, asparagus and apricots, to name a few.
Fruits and veggies high in Vitamin C, like berries, oranges, lemons, peppers, papaya, cauliflower, broccoli, kiwi, cantaloupe and kale
Vitamin E rich foods, like hazelnuts, almond, lobsters, cod liver oil, peanut butter, corn oil, safflower oil, sunflower seeds and salmon.

Just like there are healthy foods to cure common cold, there are others that are known to worsen the symptoms of a cold, such as sore throat and runny nose. Some of the common cold foods to avoid include eggs, junk food, red meat, sweets, cheese and cold foods like ice cream. Foods that are made from refined flour or contain high amounts of starch should also be avoided by people who are running a cold.

Before trying any common cold food remedies, it is important for people to consult a doctor, especially in case of those who are elderly or may be suffering from any preexisting medical condition. In case a person is suffering from common cold food poisoning, it is absolutely essential to seek emergency medical advice.

Submitted on January 16, 2014