The Best and Worst Fruits for Cold and Flu Relief
According to SHAHEDNEWS, When the common cold strikes, the first step toward recovery might be in your kitchen. But are all fruits actually beneficial for a cold? Or can some of them make things worse? In this section, we aim to review the best and worst fruits for the common cold and flu, so we know which ones should be in our fruit basket and which ones to avoid.
The Best Fruits for Treating the Common Cold
Pomegranate
This autumn fruit is rich in antioxidants, antivirals, and vitamin C, which help strengthen the immune system and reduce cold symptoms such as sore throat, headache, and runny nose. The phenols in pomegranate have antibacterial and antiviral properties, and they can eliminate infections.
Mango
This fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals that can help improve cold symptoms. The abundant vitamin C in mango boosts the immune system and helps combat viral infections. The anti-inflammatory properties of mango also reduce inflammation caused by the cold and relieve sore throat.
Citrus Fruits
Oranges, grapefruits, sweet lemons, lemons, and other citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, vitamin B9, and antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system. Consuming these fruits during a cold or flu, especially before symptoms appear, can assist the body in fighting off the illness. Additionally, a combination of lemon juice with warm water and a little honey is highly effective in improving cough and sore throat.
Kiwi
The vitamin C content in kiwi is twice that of oranges. This vitamin, along with vitamin E, acts as powerful antioxidants, boosting the immune system. The specific micronutrients in kiwi also improve the movement of white blood cells in the bloodstream, supporting the body in fighting infections. Kiwi also helps reduce inflammation, and due to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, it is effective in improving cold symptoms.
Persimmon
Persimmon contains antihistamines and improves cold symptoms by reducing histamine secretion. Additionally, persimmons are a rich source of vitamin C, which helps the body fight viruses. Consuming persimmons can have positive effects in reducing cold symptoms such as runny nose and watery eyes.
Apple
This fruit, due to its flavonoids and antioxidants, greatly helps strengthen the immune system. These antioxidants fight bacteria and viruses and have anti-inflammatory properties that improve cold symptoms. Cooked apples also help reduce throat inflammation and relieve coughs.
The Worst Fruits for the Common Cold and Flu Treatment
Banana
This fruit increases mucus production, which can be problematic during a cold and may worsen symptoms like sore throat and cough.
Grapes
Grapes contain histamine, which can increase allergic symptoms like itching and runny nose, and may be problematic during a cold
Melon
This fruit has a cooling nature, which may not be compatible with a body experiencing fever and inflammation, and it can disrupt the body’s balance.
Strawberries
Strawberries may increase throat irritation and inflammation, which can lead to further discomfort during a cold.
Dried Fruits
Once fruits are dried, they contain a high amount of sugar, which can weaken the immune system and prolong the duration of the illness.