As we all know, getting sick can be a real bummer. Aside from feeling physically drained, it’s also common to lose our appetite and interest in drinking fluids. However, staying hydrated is key when battling an illness. In this context, it’s important to explore what types of drinks are best when sick. Let’s take a look at some of the top beverages to sip on during a cold, flu, or any general sickness.
Hydration is Key
Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re sick, especially if you have a fever or are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Dehydration can make symptoms worse and prolong the duration of illness. Here are some drinks that can help keep you hydrated:
Water
Water is the best drink for staying hydrated. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids, especially if you have a fever, which can cause you to lose more fluids than usual. Drinking water can also help flush out toxins and bacteria from your body.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger tea, can help soothe a sore throat and calm an upset stomach. They also provide hydration and can help boost the immune system.
Sports Drinks
Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, can help replace electrolytes lost during illness. However, they can be high in sugar, so it’s important to choose a low-sugar option or dilute the drink with water.
Nutrient-Rich Drinks
When you’re sick, your body needs nutrients to help fight off infection and support the immune system. Here are some drinks that can provide essential vitamins and minerals:
Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It also contains collagen, which can help support gut health and boost the immune system.
Vegetable Juice
Vegetable juice, such as carrot or celery juice, can be a good source of vitamins and minerals. It can also provide a boost of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Smoothies
Smoothies can be a great way to get a variety of nutrients in one drink. Adding fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, berries, and avocado, can provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Soothing Hot Beverages
Hot beverages can help soothe a sore throat and calm an upset stomach. Here are some options to consider:
The key takeaway from this text is that staying hydrated is crucial when you’re sick, especially if you have a fever or are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated and flush out toxins and bacteria from your body. Nutrient-rich drinks such as bone broth, vegetable juice, and smoothies can provide essential vitamins and minerals to help fight off infection and support the immune system. Soothing hot beverages like hot water with lemon and honey, hot apple cider vinegar drink, and hot milk with turmeric can help soothe a sore throat, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation. It’s important to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate the body and make symptoms worse.
Hot Water with Lemon and Honey
Hot water with lemon and honey can help soothe a sore throat and provide hydration. Honey also has antibacterial properties, which can help fight infection.
Hot Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
A hot apple cider vinegar drink can help boost the immune system and soothe an upset stomach. Mix apple cider vinegar, honey, and hot water for a soothing drink.
Hot Milk with Turmeric
Hot milk with turmeric can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Turmeric also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help fight infection.
Drinks to Avoid
When you’re sick, there are some drinks that you should avoid, as they can make symptoms worse. These include:
Alcohol
Alcohol can dehydrate the body and weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infection.
Caffeine
Caffeine can also dehydrate the body and interfere with sleep, which can make it harder for the body to recover from illness.
Sugary Drinks
Sugary drinks, such as soda or fruit juice, can be high in sugar, which can feed bacteria and viruses and make symptoms worse.
FAQs for the topic: what drinks are good when sick
What drinks are recommended when I have a cold or flu?
When you have a cold or flu, it is important to stay hydrated. Keeping yourself hydrated helps loosen the mucus in your throat and relieve congestion. Water is always the best option, but if you prefer something with flavor, you can try drinking warm lemon water, herbal tea, chicken broth or vegetable soup. These drinks not only help hydrate your body but also provide important nutrients to boost your immune system.
Can I drink coffee or alcohol when I’m sick?
It is best to avoid coffee and alcohol when you are sick as they can lead to dehydration and make your symptoms worse. Caffeinated drinks like coffee or soda can also interfere with your sleep, which is crucial for your body to recover.
Can drinking hot water with honey and ginger help when I have a sore throat?
Yes, drinking hot water with honey and ginger is an effective remedy when you have a sore throat. Honey has antibacterial properties and can soothe a sore throat, while ginger can alleviate inflammation and boost your immune system. You can also add a slice of lemon to the drink for extra Vitamin C.
Is it okay to drink milk when I have a cold or flu?
Milk and other dairy products can thicken mucus in your throat, making it harder to breathe. So it is best to avoid dairy products when you have a cold or flu.
Should I drink sports drinks when I’m sick?
Sports drinks like Gatorade and Powerade are marketed as being beneficial when you’re sick as they contain electrolytes that help you stay hydrated. However, they are often high in sugar and can worsen your symptoms. So it’s better to stick to water, herbal tea or broth instead. If you are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, rehydration solutions like Pedialyte and other similar products can also be helpful.