Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that many turn to when they have a cold or the flu. There are several proposed reasons why chicken noodle soup may be helpful for relieving flu symptoms:
Provides hydration
When you have the flu, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking warm liquids can help replace fluids lost from fever, sweating, and mucus production. The broth in chicken noodle soup contains water and electrolytes that can hydrate the body.
Clears nasal congestion
Chicken soup is hot and the steam from it can help clear congestion and relax inflamed mucus membranes in the nose and throat, allowing you to breathe easier.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Some research has found that chicken contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory effects, which could help ease cold and flu symptoms like sore throat, cough, and congestion. However, the small amount of chicken in soup is unlikely to provide much anti-inflammatory benefit.
Provides nutrients
When you have the flu, you may not have much of an appetite. Chicken noodle soup provides some nutrients like protein from the chicken, vegetables, and carbohydrates from the noodles. This can help maintain your energy when you’re sick.
Increases mucus production
The warm broth can stimulate secretions in the nose and throat which can loosen thick mucus. This may allow you to clear your airways and breathe easier.
Provides comfort
Chicken noodle soup is often served to sick individuals because it’s easy to digest and provides comfort. The nostalgia and positive feelings associated with being cared for can also make you feel psychologically better.
Active ingredients
Some specific ingredients in chicken noodle soup may have beneficial properties for colds and flu:
- Chicken – Provides protein, vitamins and minerals
- Noodles – Source of carbohydrates and calories
- Onion and garlic – Contain compounds that may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects
- Salt – Helps hydrate the body by encouraging fluid intake
- Pepper – Warming and pungent properties that may help clear sinuses
- Parsley – High in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immunity
Does science support chicken soup for colds and flu?
There is limited scientific evidence directly demonstrating that chicken soup is an effective remedy for colds and flu. However, some studies suggest certain aspects of chicken soup could be beneficial:
- A 1978 study found chicken soup inhibited neutrophil chemotaxis, which could reduce inflammation associated with colds. However, the effect was transient.
- A 2000 study found hot chicken soup vapor was better than hot or cold water vapor at clearing nasal congestion.
- A 2012 study found hot chicken soup increased nasal mucus velocity over soup at room temperature.
Overall the evidence is weak and most potential benefits are temporary. More research is needed on chicken soup’s direct effects on cold and flu symptoms.
Tips for making chicken noodle soup
To get the most out of chicken noodle soup when you’re sick, follow these preparation tips:
- Use bone-in chicken parts like thighs and drumsticks to make the broth. This boosts the broth’s nutritional value.
- Simmer the broth for 1-2 hours to extract nutrients from the bones.
- Use lots of vegetables like carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. They provide vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, which have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
- Use whole grain noodles or pasta for added nutrition.
- Optional spices like turmeric, cayenne, and black pepper may provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking the broth after eating the solids.
Conclusion
Chicken noodle soup is unlikely to cure a cold or flu. However, the warm broth, hydration, and nutrients it provides may temporarily alleviate some symptoms like congestion, sore throat, and lack of appetite. The nostalgia and comforting aspect of chicken soup also can’t be discounted. While solid scientific evidence is lacking, chicken soup is a safe, inexpensive comfort food that may provide a small benefit when you’re feeling under the weather.