There is no denying that chicken soup is a comfort food. It’s warm, savory, and soothing, making it the perfect meal for when we’re feeling under the weather, stressed, or just need a little pick-me-up.

But did you know that chicken soup is also a superfood?.

What Makes Chicken Soup a Superfood?

Chicken soup is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that can help to keep us healthy and fight off illness. Here are just a few of the reasons why chicken soup is a nutrition powerhouse:.

1. It’s High in Protein

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, an essential macronutrient that our bodies need to build and repair tissues.

In fact, a single cup of chicken soup can contain up to 30 grams of protein, which is over half of the recommended daily intake for adult males and females.

2. It’s Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Chicken soup typically contains a variety of vegetables and herbs, which can add a ton of vitamins and minerals to the dish.

Carrots, celery, and onions are all common ingredients in chicken soup, and they are all great sources of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and calcium.

3. It’s Hydrating

Chicken soup is mostly made up of water, which means that it can help to keep us hydrated. This is especially important when we’re sick, as dehydration can make symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and dizziness even worse.

4. It Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chicken soup contains a compound called carnosine, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

This means that it can help to reduce inflammation in our bodies, which has been linked to a number of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and cancer.

Health Benefits of Chicken Soup

So, how exactly can chicken soup benefit our health? Here are just a few of the ways:.

1. It Can Boost Our Immune System

Chicken soup contains a substance called cysteine, which has been shown to help our bodies fight off infections. Additionally, the high protein and nutrient content in chicken soup can help to support our immune system and keep us healthy.

2. It Can Reduce Inflammation

As mentioned, the carnosine in chicken soup can help to reduce inflammation in our bodies. This can be especially helpful for individuals with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

3. It Can Soothe a Sore Throat

There’s a reason why chicken soup is often recommended for individuals with colds and flu – it can help to soothe a sore throat and suppress coughing.

The warmth and steam from the soup can also help to clear congestion in the sinuses and nasal passages.

4. It Can Help Us Sleep Better

The amino acid tryptophan, which is found in chicken, can help our bodies produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can help us feel calm and relaxed. This can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to better overall sleep quality.

How to Make the Perfect Chicken Soup

Ready to reap all of the health benefits that chicken soup has to offer? Here’s how to make the perfect batch:.

: Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
10 cups water
2 onions, chopped
4 carrots, chopped
4 celery stalks, chopped
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste

: Instructions

Place the chicken in a large pot and add enough water to cover the chicken.
Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Add the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot.
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone.
Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly before shredding the meat and discarding the bones and skin.
Skim any fat off the top of the soup and return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Serve hot and enjoy!

In Conclusion

Chicken soup truly is one of the ultimate comfort foods. But, as we’ve seen, it also offers a wide range of health benefits.

So the next time you’re feeling under the weather or just need a little pick-me-up, whip up a batch of homemade chicken soup – your body will thank you!.