Chicken soup has long been a go-to remedy for those feeling under the weather, with its comforting and nourishing properties cherished in many cultures. But is there any scientific basis to support the idea that soup can actually help us recover from respiratory infections?
A recent systematic review, conducted by a team of researchers, delved into this question by exploring the scientific evidence on the role of soup in managing acute respiratory tract infections such as the common cold, influenza, and even COVID-19. Out of over 10,000 records, the review identified four high-quality studies involving 342 participants. These studies tested various types of soups, including traditional chicken broth, barley soup, and herbal vegetable blends, with promising results.
One study revealed that individuals who consumed soup recovered up to 2.5 days faster than those who did not. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, sore throat, and fatigue were milder in the soup-consuming group. Additionally, participants showed reduced levels of inflammation-related markers in their blood, indicating that soup may help calm an overactive immune response and make symptoms less severe.
The ingredients in soup, such as garlic, onion, ginger, and leafy greens, are known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-supportive properties. The warmth of soup can also help loosen mucus, soothe sore throats, and provide overall comfort during illness.
Moreover, there is a cultural and behavioral aspect to food-based self-care, where using food as a remedy symbolizes care, routine, and reassurance. Many people, especially parents, often turn to traditional remedies like soup as a first line of defense when illness strikes, reflecting a growing interest in home remedies and the importance of culturally familiar treatments.
In light of the strain on healthcare systems and the rise of antimicrobial resistance, simple and evidence-informed home treatments like soup can play a crucial role. They help manage mild illness, reduce unnecessary antibiotic use, and alleviate pressure on healthcare providers and emergency departments for minor ailments that can be safely treated at home.
Chicken soup is easy to prepare, affordable, safe for most people, and widely recognized as a comforting home remedy for minor illness. However, more research is needed to explore standardized soup recipes and investigate which combinations of nutrients or herbs work best. Future studies should also measure meaningful outcomes to determine the impact of soup consumption on factors such as return to work or school, sleep quality, comfort levels, and energy levels during illness.
While soup is not a replacement for medicine, it can be a simple and effective way to ease symptoms and promote recovery when combined with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies. Overall, soup’s potential benefits in managing respiratory infections make it a valuable addition to one’s self-care routine.
This article, originally published on The Conversation, sheds light on the science behind how soup might soothe symptoms and support recovery from colds and flu. It emphasizes the importance of food-based self-care and culturally familiar remedies in promoting overall well-being during times of illness.
