10 Best Foods to Eat When You Feel Blue Or Are Sick

Several foods from different parts of the world are famous for different reasons. For instance, frozen yogurt is the preferred choice of Americans and is served with toppings such as candy and icecreams. 

Durian, an unusual fruit, is highly nutritious and grows throughout Southeast Asia. Right from traditional remedies to medicines, you can get several sources that can keep you safe from severe diseases. It has the worst odor but is used as anti-fever medicine. 

But do you know, besides medicines, several foods are used as a remedy to treat illness? Oats are consumed to prevent infection of the respiratory tract and stress-related death. Take a look at the best foods to eat when you are sick. 

1. Anise Seeds

Source = Thespruceeats

Anise Seeds are the best foods to eat for several reasons. The aroma of its seeds resembles other spices like fennel and licorice. It was first cultivated in Egypt and was brought to Europe for its medicinal value. This food can grow up to 3 feet and produce small white fruit known as anise seed. It is rich in nutrients and is important for the production of blood cells in the body. 

It contains manganese and also acts as an antioxidant. According to a study, anise seeds contain powerful antidepressant properties and are considered medicine to treat depression. Furthermore, it eases cough and prevents stomach ulcers. One tablespoon of Anise Seed serves 23 calories, 1 g fiber, 3 grams of Carbs, and 4% of RDI of calcium. 

2. Mushrooms

Source = Immediate

Mushrooms are a low-calorie source of fiber and antioxidants. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals and are a great addition to the diet. 

Mushrooms are loaded with exceptional health benefits and are an important component in bone health. They are a rich source of potassium and reduce the negative impact of sodium on the body. 

The anti-inflammatory property of mushrooms has shown an improvement in the efficiency of the immune system. Crimini mushrooms are mainly used in kitchens. They are native to Europe and are popular for their meaty texture. Mushrooms, when consumed every day in a meal, reduce the risk of neurological illness in the future. 

According to studies, antioxidants present in Mushrooms protects from stress and keeps you young. It also protects your brain as you age. Eating 3/4th cup of mushrooms reduces the odds of cognitive decline. It is a great alternative to meat and reduces cholesterol. 

3. Ginger

Source = Medicalnewstoday

Ginger has medicinal properties and is used as a curing agent for centuries. It is added to dishes and can save you from several health problems. It can kill bacteria and viruses and is a good repellant to people having Alzheimer’s disease.

Furthermore, it protects DNA from getting damaged and also reduces the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Wrinkles are the first sign of aging, and consuming ginger in any form prevents aging. 

Applying ginger on the face refreshes your skin and makes it glow. It can also reduce white scars naturally. It prevents hair fall by increasing blood circulation to the scalp and enabling hair growth. 

While some people believe that ginger tea does not have side effects, it could cause allergy in the beginning. It is high in gingerol and treats different forms of nausea. Do you know eating ginger can also reduce menstrual pain? It is more effective than placebo and equally effective as drugs like ibuprofen.  

4. Fennel

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The nutrients in the fennel offer several health benefits. It is a culinary herb and medicinal plant and has a mild licorice-like flavor. Consuming fennel seeds are great for the respiratory system as they decongest and reduce coughing. Fennel seeds are nutritious, low in calories, and good for collagen synthesis and tissue repair. Besides manganese, fennel also contains other minerals that are essential for bone health. 

According to a study, people who eat foods rich in antioxidants have a lower risk of obesity, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. It also suppresses appetite and adds flavor to meals. It contains powerful plant compounds and protects against chronic diseases like cancer. It has galactogenic properties and increases milk secretion, which thus benefits breastfeeding women. The vitamin and minerals in Fennel contribute to bone health. Furthermore, vitamin C, potassium, folate, and phytonutrient in fennel supports heart health. 

5. Oats

Source = Sattvicfoods

Oats are another best food to eat that is incredibly nutritious and helps in preventing severe diseases. Nearly 80 grams of oats contain 24% of copper of RDI, 11% of folate of RDI, and 41% of phosphorus of RDI. They are rich in fiber, contain a powerful antioxidant, and reduce blood pressure. It also contains a soluble fiber called beta-glucan that partially dissolves in water and forms a gel-like solution in the gut. The health benefits of beta-glucan include increased feeling of fullness and increased growth of good bacteria. 

Additionally, oats can lower cholesterol levels and protect LDL cholesterol from damage. The antioxidants in oats are beneficial for different diseases and lower bad cholesterol. It is a rich source of fiber and helps in regulating bowel movements. Consuming oats in a regular meal stabilizes blood sugar levels and reduces cancer risk. It is also a great source of magnesium and prevents heart attacks by relaxing blood vessels. 

It is a low-calorie food, reduces your cravings, and sheds a few pounds. It is a soothing agent and relieves itching while moisturizing the skin. Several recipes prepared with oatmeal can be consumed for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

6. Dark Chocolate

Source = Selecthealth

It is not surprising to read that dark chocolate offers immense benefits to everyone. Consuming dark chocolate improves brain functioning and protects the skin from the sun. The compounds in dark chocolate are protective against the oxidation of LDL. It reduces insulin resistance which is the major cause of diabetes and heart disease. 

It is an excellent source of antioxidants and is loaded with organic compounds that function as antioxidants. A 100 gm bar of dark chocolate contains 98% of the RDI of manganese, 67% of RDI of iron, and 11 % of RDI of copper. The nutrients in dark chocolate come with calories, and therefore should be consumed in moderation. 

Dark chocolate is one of the best foods to eat, as it lowers blood pressure and reduces heart diseases. Theobromine in dark chocolate, when consumed in large amounts, gives energy. According to a study, regular consumption of dark chocolate improves fetal growth. It is also a cough suppressant and more effective than cough medicines. 

7. Oysters

Source = Forbes

Oysters are irregular in shape and protect the gray plump inner body. The inner body, also known as meat, is extremely nutritious and keeps your brain and heart-healthy. 

They are low in calories and loaded with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. They are high in vitamin B12, vitamin D, and iron. It is an excellent source of protein and contains essential amino acids that are required by the body. 

It contains a unique antioxidant called 3,5-Dihydroxy-4-methoxybenzyl alcohol (DHMBA) that exhibits powerful antioxidant effects. Oysters are an excellent source of copper, vitamin B12, and selenium. 

Zinc is required for cell division, cell growth, and the breakdown of carbohydrates. Copper in Oysters enhances cellular metabolism and absorption. They are low in fat and cholesterol and protect against heart disease. However, those who are allergic to seafood should avoid eating oysters. You can eat oysters meat to pasta and also coat them in bread crumbs. Oysters are nutritious and replenish lost vitamins and minerals. 

8. Yogurt

Source = Onecms

Yogurt is nutritious and boosts several aspects of health. It is a dairy product and is prepared by the bacterial fermentation of milk. 

It is rich in nutrients and provides the daily need of phosphorus, manganese, vitamin B12. It is rich in protein and supports metabolism by increasing energy. Consuming yogurt in a regular meal boosts the immune system and prevents several illnesses. 

It also protects against osteoporosis and preserves bone mass and strength. It is extremely rich in minerals and benefits heart health. The intake of yogurt also reduces obesity. However, yogurt is not beneficial for those who are allergic to dairy products. 

Plain and unsweetened yogurt are best as they do not contain added sugar. It is rich in nutrients and offers multiple benefits to the body. It is also a great snack for pre and post-workout.

9. Barley

Source = Medicalnewstoday

Do you know why Barley is one of the best foods to eat? It is rich in fiber and digested slowly than refined grains. It reduces hunger and loses weight. It is available in many forms, from hulled barley to barley grits and flour. When consumed as a whole grain, it contains a good amount of magnesium, phosphorus, and chromium. It also boosts intestinal health and improves bowel function stool volume. Its high fiber content helps prevent gallstones. 

The type of fiber present in Barley reduces the chances of gallbladder surgery. Whole grains are associated with better health. LDL cholesterol and high blood pressure are the major cause of heart disease. Thus, consuming barley in a regular meal protects the heart from multiple disorders. 

Also, if you are diabetic, then it is recommended to eat barley for breakfast. It improves insulin production and reduces blood sugar levels. It is high in fiber, phenolic acid, and phytic acid and protects against cancer. It is easy to add barley to the diet plan. Barley can be added to soups, salads and can be consumed as a hot cereal breakfast. It is extremely healthy and offers protection against several severe diseases like heart disease and cancer. 

10. Tomatoes

Source = Healthline

Tomatoes are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin K, and folate. Tomatoes come in different colors and exist in different shapes. A 100-gram raw tomato contains 0.2 grams of fat, 0.9 grams of protein, 2.6 grams of sugar, and 95% water. 

Consumption of tomatoes prevents heart diseases and stroke. Tomatoes are best for skin health. They are rich in lycopene and protect against sunburn. When tomatoes start to ripen, they produce a gas called ethylene. Consuming this superfood in the diet protects you against cancer and reduces blood glucose levels in people having diabetes. 

Final Words 

Next time, when you feel sick, don’t take medicines at first; instead, consume these best foods high in nutrition to see the difference in health in a week.

Do you know about other best foods that taste delicious and offer high nutritional value? If so, share their facts and how they could be added to the diet.