Does chicken soup really make you feel better?
As it does with turkey, the body uses tryptophan from chicken to make melatonin—which can help you rest—and serotonin, the chemical that signals your nerves and makes you feel happy and at ease. Both of these are reasons chicken soup is associated with comfort food: you literally feel a physiological sense of comfort.
The sodium in the recipe helps relieve sore throat pain (the same principle behind gargling warm salt water), the heat helps clear nasal congestion, and can relieve pain and sinus pressure. The vitamins and minerals in nutrient-dense soups can also speed recovery, Bailey adds.
It's likely not just an old wives tale either; while chicken soup may not be the cure-all for the common cold, research suggest that it likely does possess qualities that can help you heal faster or, at the least, feel better for the duration of your sickness.
Chicken soup contains vitamins A and C, magnesium, phosphorus, gelatin and antioxidants, which are known to build a strong immune system and fight off viruses. The protein from chicken provides amino acids that are used to build antibodies to fight infection.
When chicken cooks in soup, an amino acid called cysteine is released. Cysteine thins mucus in the lungs, aiding in chest decongestion and faster healing.
Although not super exciting, very plain and bland foods can help ease symptoms. Try pasta, dry cereals, oatmeal, bread and crackers. But bland doesn't mean you can't add protein or veggies into the mix if you're feeling up for it! Try eating rice and baked chicken breast or cheese and crackers.
Chicken Soup
There's a reason that chicken soup has been recommended as a cure for the common cold for hundreds of years. It's easy to eat, a great source of vitamins, minerals, calories, and proteins. It's also a great way to get fluids and electrolytes into your body, especially if you have a fever or diarrhea.
Chicken soup has been a go-to for sickness for generations — and for good reason. It's an easy-to-eat source of vitamins, minerals, calories, and protein, which are nutrients your body may need in larger quantities while you're recovering from an illness ( 1 ).
Modern research has actually shown that chicken soup, more than other hot liquid, increases mucus flow and helps the body rid itself of the cold virus. Chicken is rich in an amino acid called cysteine which helps loosen secretions. This effect is increased by adding spices such as pepper and garlic.
Chicken is full of protein that helps support the immune system. It's also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, which boost immunity and help regulate digestion.
What does chicken soup do to you?
Rich in nutrients
The chicken itself delivers protein, which is an important nutrient for satisfaction, immunity and your muscles. Chicken also delivers zinc, a key immunity nutrient. Most chicken soup recipes starts with onion, carrots, celery; but any vegetables you add will deliver fiber, vitamins and minerals.
Chicken contains the amino acid tryptophan, which has been linked to higher levels of serotonin (the “feel good” hormone) in our brains. The tryptophan levels in chicken aren't high enough to make you feel instantly euphoric, but studies show it could help to boost serotonin levels when paired with other factors.
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