Foods to Eat for a Cold

When suffering from a common cold, you can eat any food you wish as long as your body tolerates it---which means that the food does not cause vomiting, diarrhea or an allergic reaction. Foods that are high in nutrients, vitamins and minerals often help lessen the severity of a cold. In addition, "comfort foods" may help alleviate your discomfort until your cold passes.

Liquids

• Hot liquids, such as tea or broth, are among the best foods you can consume when you have a cold. They will thin the mucous your body produces when attacked by a cold and help to remove it from your system more quickly---especially if you hold your head over the steam that rises form the beverage and breathe deeply. Cold liquids, such as water or fruit juice, slow mucous release but are still important in combating the dehydration a cold can produce.

Dairy

• Contrary to popular belief, according to Dietitian.com, dairy products do not increase phlegm in a cold sufferer or exacerbate upper respiratory conditions. When you have a cold, include ice cream, milk or cream-based soups in your diet if you find them comforting. In addition, try some yogurt---the active cultures in just one seven-ounce serving a day can boost your immunity.

Nutrient-Dense Choices

• Have a bowl of oatmeal for its antimicrobial and antioxidant fiber, which will increase your immunity and may help antibiotics work more effectively. Consuming flavonoid-rich fruits such as apples, cranberries and tomatoes will bolster your immune system as well, in addition to preventing inflammation. Bananas, fish and poultry will help keep your organs healthy and the infection-fighting white cells they create in full supply. Mushrooms and beef also increase white cell production and activity.

Vitamins and Minerals

• Look to citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruits for vitamin C, which can shorten the duration of your illness. Vitamins A and E help remove viruses and bacteria from your body's mucous membranes and can be found in squash, leafy greens, broccoli, beans, carrots, eggs and berries. Crab, fish and liver are rich in zinc, which can help boost your immune system and drive your cold out faster.

Chicken Soup

• As chicken cooks, it releases an amino acid that chemically resembles acetylcysteine, a bronchitis medication. According to MSNBC.com, a University of Nebraska study showed that chicken soup also blocks the movement of inflammatory white cells. Add in some garlic for a dose of allicin, an antibiotic compound.