Chicken soup

I've been moving my old blog entries to this blog over the past few months, and I came across an entry that's very relevant, what with H1N1; sometimes the best medicine is a good ole' dose of mum's wisdom.

Although colds and flus are not the same, they share inflammatory effects (your body's response to most invading pathogens), so if you happen to be down with either, according to RealAge (which is apparently six years out of date),

"Chicken soup really can help you get over a cold. Ingredients in chicken soup have anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the movement of neutrophils into airways. Neutrophils are white blood cells that contribute to the inflammation that causes cold symptoms. Combat your next cold with plenty of rest, lots of fluids, and a bowl of homemade chicken soup...chicken soup contains compounds that help inhibit mucus production. In addition to chicken soup's anti-inflammatory effects, the heat and steam may help open up nasal passages...Sipping hot chicken soup may help, as well -- a steamy bowl of chicken soup with plenty of garlic and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper will boost the nasal-clearing effects of the soup. And be sure to finish the broth; researchers determined most of the anti-inflammatory effects of chicken soup come from the liquid."

(first published 7/3/06 9:11 PM)