When the chill of winter brings on sniffles and coughs, many of us instinctively reach for a comforting bowl of chicken soup. Our State of the Nation survey highlights that chicken soup is a beloved go-to remedy. But what makes this classic dish so healing? With insights from nutritionist Jo Lewin, we’ll explore why chicken soup is more than just a comforting placebo.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
It’s wise to indulge in some chicken soup as a preventive measure before the symptoms of a cold strike. A study from Coping with Allergies and Asthma in 1998 indicated that broth can enhance the function of cilia—those tiny hairs in our noses that help keep infections at bay.
Learn more about preventing a cold.
Immune Support
Key ingredients in chicken soup, such as onions, garlic, and various vegetables, contribute both flavor and vital phytonutrients. These elements play a significant role in maintaining a robust immune system and can help reduce inflammation, alleviating the discomfort of a troublesome cold.
Healthy Calories
At the onset of illness, your body expends extra energy fighting off infection, often leading to a decreased appetite. This is where the age-old saying, ‘feed a cold‘, rings true. Chicken soup is not only a source of easily digestible, nutritious calories but also brings a wealth of additional health benefits.
Gut Health
Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial when we’re unwell, as it allows our bodies to absorb the essential vitamins and minerals needed to combat illness. Glucosamine, a key component of our digestive system, is released from bones during cooking. When broth cools, a layer of gelatin forms on the surface. This gelatin, along with glucosamine, can help protect and heal the lining of the gastrointestinal tract.
Learn more about how diet impacts gut health.
Alleviating Symptoms
Chicken is particularly high in a compound known as carnosine, which studies suggest may help relieve nasal and throat congestion. It’s believed that carnosine reduces inflammation in the upper respiratory tract by inhibiting the movement of white blood cells, with benefits lasting only as long as the soup is consumed—so consider making a large batch!
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Cooking bones with joint tissue—such as necks, knuckles, or leftover chicken carcasses—allows that tissue to break down and release gelatin, glucosamine, and chondroitin into the broth. These components are absorbed by our bodies, aiding in the repair and rebuilding of our connective tissue while also reducing inflammation, helping you recover quicker after illness.
The Power of Nostalgia
While the scientific advantages of chicken soup as a cold remedy are compelling, the placebo effect should not be overlooked. If your mother used to comfort you with a steaming bowl of soup and assured you it would make you feel better, those memories likely still influence your perception of wellness today. The placebo effect demonstrates the mind’s power over the body; when we believe that a remedy will help us, we often feel better. So keep a positive outlook and enjoy your soup!
Now that you’re aware of the benefits, why not try out some of our favorite chicken soup recipes?
This article was last reviewed on 6th November 2018 by Kerry Torrens.
Kerry Torrens is a qualified Nutritionist (MBANT) with a postgraduate diploma in Personalised Nutrition & Nutritional Therapy. She is a member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and the Guild of Food Writers. Over the last 15 years, she has contributed to numerous nutritional and culinary publications, including BBC Good Food.
Jo Lewin works as a Community Nutritionist and private consultant. She is a Registered Nutritionist (Public Health) registered with the UKVRN. Follow her on Twitter @nutri_jo.
All health content on bbcgoodfood.com is intended for general information only and should not replace medical advice from your doctor or any other health care professional. If you have concerns about your health, please reach out to a local healthcare provider. For more details, see our terms and conditions.
Do you have a favorite remedy for colds? Share your tips in the comments below!
