The Best Natural Things To Eat When You’re Sick

Honey:

Image source/ healthlineHoney has natural antibacterial properties and can be used as a cough suppressant. Mix a tablespoon of honey with some warm water and drink it to help soothe a sore throat. Additionally, honey is a natural antioxidant and has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Lemon:

Image source/ BritannicaLemon has vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and fight off colds and flu. Squeeze some lemon juice into a glass of warm water and add honey for a homemade remedy for a sore throat. Lemon juice can also help with indigestion, constipation, and weight loss.

Apple cider vinegar:

Image source/ everydayhealthApple cider vinegar has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help with digestive issues. Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with some warm water and honey and drink it to help alleviate stomach-ache or indigestion. Apple cider vinegar has also been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral properties, and can help lower blood sugar levels and improve heart health.

Ginger:

Image source/ YouTubeGinger has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help with nausea and vomiting. Make a cup of ginger tea by grating some fresh ginger into hot water and adding honey for added flavor. Ginger can also help with muscle pain, menstrual cramps, and arthritis.

Garlic:

Image source/ realsimpleGarlic has natural antibiotic properties and can help fight off infections. Chop up some fresh garlic and add it to your cooking for added flavor and health benefits. Garlic can also help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties.

Cayenne pepper:

 Image source/ medical news todayCayenne pepper has natural pain-relieving properties and can help with headaches. Mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper with some warm water and drink it to help alleviate a headache. Cayenne pepper can also help with circulation and can be used topically to help with arthritis and muscle pain.

Turmeric:

Image source/ healthlineTurmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help with joint pain and swelling. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric with some warm water and drink it to help alleviate pain. Turmeric can also help with digestive issues, skin conditions, and even cancer - some studies suggest.

Peppermint:

Image source/ gerdeningknowhowPeppermint has natural pain-relieving properties and can help with headaches and stomach-ache. Make a cup of peppermint tea by steeping some fresh peppermint leaves in hot water. Peppermint can also help with nausea, irritable bowel syndrome, and anxiety.

Chamomile:

Image source/ healthlineChamomile has natural soothing properties and can help with anxiety and insomnia. Make a cup of chamomile tea by steeping some chamomile flowers in hot water. Chamomile can also help with indigestion and inflammatory skin conditions.

Epsom salt:

Image source/ allaboutgardeningEpsom salt has natural pain-relieving and muscle-relaxing properties. Add a cup of Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak in it to help alleviate muscle pain and stiffness. Epsom salt is also thought to be able to help with constipation and skin conditions.

Baking soda:

Image source/ foodandwineBaking soda has natural antacid properties and can help with heartburn and indigestion. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with some water and drink it to help neutralize stomach acid. Baking soda can also be used as a natural deodorant and toothpaste.

Tea tree oil:

Image source/ healthlineTea tree oil has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties and can help with fungal infections and acne. Dilute some tea tree oil with water and apply it to the affected area to help kill bacteria and fungi. Tea tree oil can also be used as a natural insect repellent.

Witch hazel:

Image source/ naturalspasuppliesWitch hazel has natural astringent properties and can help with acne, bruises, and swelling. Apply some witch hazel to a cotton ball and dab it on the affected area to help reduce inflammation and swelling. Witch hazel can also be used as a natural toner and makeup remover.

Salt:

Image source/ clevelandclinicSalt has natural antiseptic properties and can help with sore throat and mouth infections. Mix a teaspoon of salt with some warm water and gargle it to help kill bacteria and alleviate a sore throat. Salt can also be used as a natural exfoliant and toothpaste.

Olive oil:

Image source/ everydayhealthOlive oil has natural moisturizing properties and can help with dry skin and hair. Massage some olive oil into your skin or hair to help moisturize and nourish. Olive oil can also be used as a natural makeup remover and to help with constipation.

Cinnamon:

Cinnamon has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can help with stomachache and nausea. Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon with some warm water and drink it to help alleviate digestive issues. Cinnamon can also help with diabetes and has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties.

Apple:

 Image source/ healthlineApples have natural fiber and antioxidants and can help with constipation and indigestion. Eat a raw apple or make a cup of apple juice to help with digestion. Apples can also help with weight loss and have been shown to have heart-healthy benefits.

Fennel:

Image source/ greatbritishchefsFennel has natural diuretic and digestive properties and can help with bloating and gas. Drink a cup of fennel tea or chew on some fennel seeds to help with digestion. Fennel can also help with menstrual cramps and has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties.

Yogurt:

Image source/ The Spruce EatsYogurt has natural probiotics and can help with digestive issues and vaginal infections. Eat a cup of plain yogurt or use it as a base for a homemade smoothie to help balance the bacteria in your gut. Yogurt can also help with high blood pressure and has been shown to have anti-aging benefits.

Oatmeal:

Image source/ eatingbirdfoodOatmeal has natural fiber and antioxidants and can help with constipation and high cholesterol. Eat a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast or mix it with yogurt and fruit for a healthy snack. Oatmeal can also help with weight loss and has been shown to have heart-healthy benefits.

Cranberries:

Image source/ healthlineCranberries have natural antioxidants and can help with urinary tract infections. Drink a glass of cranberry juice or eat some dried cranberries to help prevent UTIs. Cranberries can also help with gingivitis and have been shown to have cancer-fighting properties.

Green tea:

Image source/ goodhousekeepingGreen tea has natural antioxidants and can help with weight loss and heart health. Drink a cup of green tea or use it as a base for a homemade smoothie. Green tea can also help with high cholesterol and has been shown to have anti-aging benefits.

Aloe vera:

Image source/ medcialnewstodayIt has natural healing properties and can help with burns, cuts, and scrapes. Apply some fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected area to help soothe and heal the skin. Aloe vera can also help with eczema, dandruff, and sunburns.

Cabbage:

Image source/ greatbritishchefsCabbage has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help with ulcers and digestive issues. Eat a raw cabbage salad or drink a cup of cabbage juice to help alleviate digestive issues. Cabbage can also help with weight loss and has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties.

Vinegar:

 Image source/ EaterVinegar has natural antimicrobial properties and can help with fungal infections and acne. Dilute some vinegar with water and apply it to the affected area to help kill bacteria and fungi. Vinegar can also be used as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.

Thyme:

Image source/ medicalnewstodayThyme has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties and can help with respiratory infections and sore throat. Make a cup of thyme tea by steeping some fresh thyme leaves in hot water. Thyme can also help with digestion and has been suggested to have cancer-fighting properties.

Rosemary:

Image source/ Medical News TodayRosemary has natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can help with memory and concentration. Drink a cup of rosemary tea or add some fresh rosemary to your cooking for added flavor and health benefits. Rosemary can also help with indigestion and has been suggested to have cancer-fighting properties.

Lavender:

Image source/ gardendesignLavender has natural relaxing and sedative properties and can help with anxiety and insomnia. Drink a cup of lavender tea or use lavender essential oil in a diffuser to help promote relaxation. Lavender can also help with indigestion and has been suggested to have cancer-fighting properties.

Lettuce

Image source/ RedditLettuce is a great thing to eat when you are feeling nauseous. For one reason, it's packed full of water due to it's high water content which is good for hydrating you. And, due to the minerals and vitamins in lettuce it may help to make you feel better.

Bananas

Image source/ RedditThe softness and mild taste of bananas is a great reason for you to consume this fruit when you are feeling sick. They are packed full of nutrients as well as fast carbs which can give you an energy boost. They can also replace some of your electrolytes that you may have lost through your sickness.

Miso soup

Image source/ RedditMiso soup is recommended for gut health. When you are sick it is often recommended to drink clear fluids. And because miso has nutrients in it will hydrate and provide you with essential goodness. The effect on your gut could also be beneficial as your gut is probably upset due to your sickness.

Chicken soup

Image source/ RedditChicken soup is one of those foods which has been used for generations when someone is feeling sick. But there's good reason for this. The protein will provide the much needed energy and the fluids from the soup is great for rehydration as well as helping with decongestion.

Kale

Image source/ RedditKale is one of those vegetables which is completely packed full of minerals and nutrients such as iron, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate as well as being loaded with fibre. There are also antioxidants which can help tackle the inflammation in your body.

Coconut water

Image source/ RedditCoconut is a great drink to relace electrolytes which are often lost when you are sick due to sweating or sickness or diarrhoea. It is also a clear fluid which can be consumed without upsetting your stomach. The small amount of sugar in the drink may help boost your energy levels.

Chilli

Image source/ RedditConsuming chilli when you are sick  can be a great way to decongest. The chilli can cause a runny nose, helping to break up the mucus trapped in your system and help you feel much clearer and helping get rid of some from your body. On the other hand, be careful consuming chilli on a sensitive stomach as it could provoke it.

Toast

Image source/ RedditToast is definitely not a food that is rich in nutrients or health benefits. But, the reason it can be good to at while you are sick is because it is a plain, low fibre food which will not aggravate your stomach, sickness or diarrhoea any further while still proving some energy.

Orange

Image source/ RedditOranges are a great fruit to eat when you are sick because they are high in vitamin C. Vitamin C is something which is linked to improving your health and helping you recover. Oranges may not be good for a bad stomach however, due to their high acidity.

Avocado

Image source/ RedditAvocados have gained popularity de to their smooth texture, mild taste, and many health benefits which is why is makes a good food to eat while you are sick. Avocados contain monounsaturated fats (considered to be good fats), fibre as well as vitamins and minerals.

Spinach

Image source/ RedditSpinach has long been considered as one of the healthiest foods and vegetables you can eat. This is because spinach is packed full polyphenols which act as a kind of antioxidants that may help out bodies meaning it is a great food to eat of you are sick.

Salmon

Image source/ RedditSalmon is a fish that is full omega-3 fatty acids and good protein. Not only this but it also contains Vitamin D which may help with your recovery. As a combination salmon could be the perfect food to eat while you are sick because it contains such beneficial health properties.

Broth

Image source/ RedditThe broth is one of those age-old remedies when you are sick - and for good reason. The clear liquid may hydrate you as well as the warm fluid helping with your congestion. It also can contain nutrients that could help with inflammation and help your immune system.

Brazil Nuts

Image source/ RedditBrazil nuts are small and do not need to be consumed in huge amounts due to the fact that they are packed full of health benefits. For example, Brazil nuts are packed full of vitamin E, magnesium, as well as selenium which is good for our immune system.

Eggs

Image source/ RedditEggs are rich in omega-3 fats as well as high in protein. They also contain something that is called selenium, which is linked to improving and boosting our immune system. There is also a link that eggs may help against diarrhea which can help us when we are sick.

Onions

Image source/ RedditOnions contain something called quercetin which is considered very beneficial for your health and has been linked with antiviral properties. Onions are one of our staple vegetables and they also are said to contain anti fungal and cancer-fighting properties.

Potato soup

Image source/ RedditPotatoes may not actually be classed as a vegetable but they may still contain a lot of important health benefits necessary for our bodies. For example, potatoes are considered to aid bone health as well as reduce blood pressure and inflammation in the body.

Mushrooms

Image source/ RedditMushrooms contain so many vitamins and minerals that they are thought to help boost the immune system as well as lower cholesterol and supposedly contain cancer-fighting properties. They are particularly high in vitamin B and vitamin D and are thought to even slow the process of ageing.

Pineapple

Image source/ RedditPineapples are said to contain bromelain which is linked with anti-inflammatory properties and it is also thought to break up mucus. For these reasons, it is considered a good remedy to suppress a cough. Pineapple is also thought to be good for the immune system and for the gut.

Kiwi

Image source/ RedditKiwis contain a high concentration of what are called immunity-boosting 'erythrocytes' which exist within the red blood cells. A study claimed that kiwis actually improved the symptoms of a sore throat. And, they are thought to benefit the immune system as a whole.

Vegetable juice

Image source/ RedditVegetable juice is a clear blend of different vegetables. It is drinkable, so it rehydrates you but it also contains the minerals, antioxidants and vitamins from the vegetables in the blend, which can be useful in recovering and feeling better when you are sick.

Carrot soup

Image source/ RedditCarrots are a vegetable packed full of health benefits, they are even thought to help reduce bad cholesterol. And, health experts have found links that suggest carrots may help in preventing cancer. Soup is a great way to consume food during sickness.

Rice

Image source/ RedditRice is a part of the BRAT diet which is sometimes suggested for people who are sick due to them being easy, plain foods. This is because rice contains low fiber which will not disrupt your stomach. It is also very bland to eat on its own which will not trigger nausea.

Applesauce

Image source/ RedditApplesauce is another part of the BRAT diet. Not only is it easy to eat and mild for your stomach, but it also contains pectin. Pectin is thought to help with digestive issues as well as help with diarrhea as well as help with constipation. And, it provides an energy boost.

Blueberries

Image source/ RedditBlueberries are good when you are sick because you do not need to eat many to get the health benefits and nutrients and minerals, and they are small making they will not over face you. Blueberries are packed full of antioxidants which may help aid your recovery.

Crackers

Image source/ RedditCrackers are very plain, with no string flavor to make you feel even worse. They are also high in starch, meaning that they can help your upset stomach. They are good for the case of a bad stomach. However, they are not full of nutrients to boost your immune system.

Walnuts

Image source/ RedditWalnuts are thought to be an anti-inflammatory nuts due to their properties and nutrients. They contain lots of vitamins E and B6, copper, and folate which may help boost the immune system and help you recover faster from your sickness. They are also small and easy to consume.

Pomegranate juice

Image source/ RedditPomegranates contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. They are also full of polyphenols which are antioxidants that are considered to benefit the body in numerous ways. Drinking it in juice makes it easier to consume when you are sick.

Broccoli

Image source/ RedditBroccoli is considered to be one of the healthiest green vegetables due to the fact that it is so densely packed with nutrients as well as fiber. It is believed to help with inflammation in the body and it is even thought to help prevent against cancers.

Strawberry lassi

Image source/ RedditStrawberry lassi is a kind of healthy milkshake or smoothie. The natural contents within it may help you feel better and recover when you are sick. The lassi contains yogurt, strawberry, and rosewater, combining nutrients and protein, and liquid for hydration.