Every year, right after Carnival, many people catch a cold. Sneezing, fever, body aches, headaches, and coughs seem almost expected.
To help you recover faster, the Grenada Food and Nutrition Council (GFNC) shares these simple post-Carnival nutrition tips
The following vitamins and minerals help to combat symptoms and encourage healing:
- Vitamin D is excellent for preventing respiratory infections
- Vitamin C and zinc help shorten the duration of the illness
- Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc help strengthen the body’s immune system
Below are examples of foods for each vitamin and mineral mentioned:
Vitamin C
- Cherries
- Guava
- Papaya (pawpaw)
- Citrus Fruits (oranges, Seville orange,s limes, lemons)
- Okra (raw)
- Bell Peppers
- Tomatoes
Vitamin D
- Fish
- Eggs (egg yolk)
- Sunshine
Although dairy foods have vitamin D, it is best to avoid them during illness, as they may increase mucus production.
Zinc
- Legumes (beans, peas)
- Seafood (including shellfish)
- Red meat (beef)
- Nuts and seeds
- Callaloo
- Beans (black, kidney)
- Peas
- Pumpkin seeds
If you are recovering from a cold, in addition to what was mentioned, drinking water is beneficial to the healing process. Hydration helps keep mucus thin and clear. The final piece of advice is that it is important to get rest. In fact, lack of sleep puts a person at risk for getting a cold or flu because their immune system is compromised.
Remember, good nutrition, proper hydration, and rest are key to a speedy recovery. For personalised guidance, schedule a nutritional counselling session at the Archibald Avenue office of the GFNC. Call 473-440-2126 or email [email protected].
GFNC
