8 smoothies to fight common cold and flu symptoms
Although cold and flu are common health conditions, they can be discomforting and disrupt daily life. Additionally, they are typically accompanied by headaches, loss of appetite, fever, and other symptoms. These conditions are often treated using home remedies like gargling with lukewarm water, steam inhalation, and avoiding cold beverages. Also, adding certain foods to meals can help one recover better. So, here are some refreshing smoothies that can help relieve common cold and flu symptoms:
Ginger, kale, and carrot smoothie
Ginger is a well-known anti-inflammatory ingredient that can fight infections and boost immunity. It contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaols, which can help manage throat infections. Leafy greens like kale are packed with nutrients such as folate and vitamins A and C and are excellent options to relieve symptoms during bouts of the common cold or influenza. Finally, carrots have high levels of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, facilitating the production of more white blood cells to fight infections. A combination of these three ingredients can make for a delectable and nutritious smoothie to beat flu and common cold symptoms.
Pomegranate and pumpkin smoothie
Packed with nutrients, this smoothie works wonders for regulating common cold and flu symptoms. Pomegranate is packed with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, including vitamin C and antioxidants, and can reduce the duration of the common cold by as much as 40%. Pumpkins contain high levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene and can help ward off cold and flu symptoms. One may enjoy a bowl of this delectable smoothie for breakfast or a snack for a speedy recovery from flu and cold.
Blueberry and almond smoothie
Blueberries can provide 24% of the body’s required intake of vitamin C per day; further, they contain incredibly high concentrations of antioxidants, enabling a speedy recovery from cold and flu symptoms. Almonds are rich in polyphenols—compounds that increase the sensitivity of white blood cells and help protect the body against cold-causing bacteria and viruses. Polyphenols in almonds are concentrated in their skin; so it is best to leave the almond skin on when making this smoothie. One can enjoy this refreshing and power-packed smoothie while recuperating from a cold or flu.
Spinach and pineapple smoothie
Spinach, a leafy green, is packed with vitamin C and folate—nutrients essential for healing from infections. Pineapple, a citrus fruit, is also loaded with vitamin C and exhibits anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, which help reduce congestion.
Papaya, kiwi, and walnut smoothie
This delicious smoothie will surely become a favorite owing to its unbeatable taste and incredible health benefits. Papaya is loaded with vitamins C and E and beta-carotene, making it the perfect fruit to fight colds and other infections. Kiwi also contains several antioxidants and vitamins C and E. Walnuts have the highest antioxidant activity and omega-3 fats among nuts and can contribute significantly to fighting colds and other such conditions.
Tomato, celery, and turmeric smoothie
Tomatoes have high levels of lycopene, which reduces inflammation in the body and helps fight diseases. They are also great sources of vitamin C. Celery is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping protect the body from infections. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to control cold and influenza symptoms significantly. The combination of tomato, celery, and turmeric is unique, refreshing, and nutritious.
Sweet potato and strawberry smoothie
Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, which, when converted to vitamin A, increases the production of white blood cells and helps fight infections. The vegetable is also high in potassium and vitamins B6 and C, boosting the immune system. Strawberries are rich sources of anthocyanins, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help fight colds and flu. This unique and delicious blend of sweet potato and strawberry can soothe the throat.
Oatmeal, blackberry, and chia seeds smoothie
Besides being highly fibrous, oatmeal contains zinc, selenium, and beta-glucan, which provide an excellent boost to the immune system and help fight infections. Blackberries have polyphenols, which are linked with protecting the body from bacteria and viruses causing the common cold and flu. They are also great sources of vitamin C and magnesium. Chia seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory antioxidants, increasing immunity to colds and flu. One may add some honey and enjoy the smoothie during breakfast or snack time.