Got the flu? Here’s what to eat

Chicken soup. Chicken soup helps you get the fluids you need to boost your immune system. Research shows that eating chicken soup can help with the healing process. When it’s hot, chicken soup can improve the way tiny hair-like parts in the passages of your nose protect your body from bacteria and viruses.

Toast. When fighting off the flu, toast or crackers can be especially helpful. As you probably know, they go well with chicken noodle soup. They are a great choice to satisfy your hunger when your stomach can’t handle much.

Hot tea. One of the best teas to get lots of antioxidants include green tea. Adding a spoonful of honey and a squeeze of lemon can help soothe a sore throat. Try decaf or herbal tea to avoid caffeine if drinking later at night.

Ginger. Ginger may help relieve stomach aches and nausea. Research shows that ginger fights inflammation. Ginger can be added to other foods too. Another way to get ginger is to drink flat ginger ale.

Ice pops. Ice pops keep you hydrated and can help soothe your throat when it's sore, swollen, or dry. It is important to get lots of fluids to keep the mucus thin which eases congestion. Make sure to only eat ice pops that are made from 100% fruit juice to make sure you get nutrients and avoid the sugar.

Vegetable juice. Drinking low-sodium vegetable juice can help during the flu. It will provide lots of antioxidants that boost the immune system which can help fight off illness. Make sure you drink 100% fruit juice.

Garlic. Garlic can be a good addition to add to foods like soup when you have the flu. Apparently, garlic has some ability to boost the immune system and possibly relieve congestion.

Banana. Bananas are good during the flu because they are easy on the stomach. They can be especially helpful if you have nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Bananas are one of the first foods recommended to try when a person is recovering from a stomach flu and ready for solid foods.