When you are trying to recover from a virus, it is important to nourish your body with the right kinds of foods. A balanced and healthy diet can help boost your immune system and speed up your recovery time.

Here are some foods that you should incorporate into your diet when recovering from a virus:.

High Protein Foods

Protein helps in the production of antibodies that fight against infections, thus making it one of the most important nutrients for recovering from a virus. Lean meats like chicken and turkey, eggs, fish, and beans are great sources of protein.

If you are a vegetarian, you can opt for tofu, tempeh, and legumes.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale are rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A and C, iron, and calcium which can help boost immunity and prevent infections. You can eat them cooked or raw in salads and soups.

Citrus Fruits

When it comes to immune-boosting foods, citrus fruits are often the first to come to mind.

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are loaded with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant and a crucial nutrient for fighting against infections. You can eat them on their own or make a refreshing juice or smoothie.

Soups and Broths

When you have a virus, soups and broths can help keep you hydrated and provide you with the necessary nutrients to fight against the infection.

Chicken soup, vegetable broth, and bone broth are great options that can soothe your throat and reduce inflammation in your body.

Garlic

Garlic has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help combat infections. It is also known to reduce inflammation and boost immunity. You can add garlic to your soups and stir-fries or eat it raw to reap its full benefits.

Yogurt

Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are healthy bacteria that can strengthen your immune system and help fight off infections. It also contains calcium and vitamin D which are important nutrients for bone health.

Choose plain yogurt without added sugars for the maximum benefit.

Ginger

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce fever and alleviate symptoms of the flu. You can add ginger to your tea, soup, or smoothie or eat it raw to help soothe your sore throat.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help support your immune system. They can also provide you with the energy you need to help you recover.

You can have them as a side dish or use them as the base for your stir-fries and salads.

Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help protect your body against infections and reduce inflammation. They are also low in calories, making them a great snack option.

You can eat them on their own or add them to your smoothies, oatmeal, or yogurt bowls.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and elderberry can help soothe your throat, reduce fever, and alleviate symptoms of the flu. You can add some honey to sweeten them and boost their immune-boosting properties.