Chicken soup has long been a go-to remedy for people feeling under the weather. It is a cherished treatment in many cultures for colds and flu. But is there any scientific evidence to support the idea that soup can help us recover from respiratory infections?
A systematic review was conducted to explore the role of soup in managing acute respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19. The review identified four high-quality studies involving 342 participants that tested a variety of soups, including traditional chicken broth, barley soup, and herbal vegetable blends. The results were promising, with one study showing that people who ate soup recovered up to 2.5 days faster than those who didn’t. Symptoms such as nasal congestion, sore throat, and fatigue were milder, and levels of inflammation-related markers were reduced in those who consumed soup.
The warm, hydrating, and nutrient-rich properties of soup, along with ingredients like garlic, onion, ginger, and leafy greens, contribute to its potential benefits in managing respiratory infections. These ingredients have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-supportive properties. The warmth of soup can also help loosen mucus, soothe sore throats, and promote overall comfort during illness.
Food-based self-care plays a significant role in managing illness and promoting recovery. It symbolizes care, routine, and reassurance, especially in households where traditional remedies like soup are used as a first line of defense against illness. Culturally familiar treatments increase confidence and comfort in self-managing illness at home.
As healthcare systems face increasing pressure, simple, evidence-informed home treatments like soup can be crucial. By helping people manage mild illness, reduce unnecessary antibiotic use, and avoid unnecessary visits to healthcare providers, soup and other home remedies can ease strain on the system.
Chicken soup is affordable, easy to prepare, and widely recognized as a comforting home remedy for minor illness. However, more research is needed to explore standardized soup recipes, nutrient combinations, and meaningful outcomes such as return-to-work rates and comfort levels. Soup is not a replacement for medicine, but it can be a simple way to ease symptoms and help people feel better during respiratory infections.
