Can Chicken Soup Really Help with Respiratory Infections?
For ages, chicken soup has been a trusted remedy for those feeling unwell. Many cultures embrace it as a soothing treatment for common colds and flu.
But does any actual science back up the belief that soup can aid our recovery from respiratory infections?
I, along with colleagues, conducted a systematic review to delve into this question. We looked into the scientific evidence regarding soup’s role in managing acute respiratory tract infections, including the common cold, influenza, and COVID-19.
From over 10,000 records, we pinpointed four robust studies with a total of 342 participants. The soups tested varied from traditional chicken broth to barley soup and herbal vegetable blends. While the findings are still in early stages, they were quite promising.
One study indicated that participants consuming soup recovered up to 2.5 days faster than those who didn’t.
Reported symptoms like nasal congestion, sore throat, and fatigue were less severe. Some participants also showed decreased levels of inflammation-related markers in their blood—these markers increase when the immune system combats an infection.
Specifically, levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, two proteins that promote inflammation, were lower among those who had soup. This suggests that soup may help moderate an overly active immune response, leading to milder symptoms and a more comfortable recovery.
However, it’s worth noting that none of the studies looked at how soup consumption affected daily life during respiratory infections or if it led to fewer missed workdays or hospital visits. This represents a significant gap in knowledge that future research needs to tackle.
There are several reasons why soup might help, though. It’s warm, hydrating, and generally nutrient-rich.
Ingredients like garlic, onion, ginger, and leafy greens often possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting properties. The warmth of soup can also help relieve mucus congestion, soothe sore throats, and provide comfort during illness.
More Than Just Nutrition
There’s also a strong cultural and behavioral aspect to using food for self-care: people often turn to food not just as sustenance but as a conscious effort to manage their illness and encourage recovery.
In many families, food transitions into medicine, symbolizing care, routine, and reassurance.
From previous findings, I’ve observed that parents often resort to traditional remedies like soup as an initial defense when sickness strikes, often before seeking medical advice.
This reflects a growing interest in home remedies and the importance of culturally familiar treatments—remedies that resonate emotionally because they’re tied to one’s upbringing or community. Such treatments can boost confidence and provide comfort during self-care at home.
As pressures on healthcare systems mount, food-based self-care might become even more crucial. With rising concerns about antimicrobial resistance, stretched-thin services, and the lingering impacts of global pandemics, simple, evidence-informed home treatments can make a vital difference.
They assist individuals in managing mild illnesses, curbing unnecessary antibiotic use, and preventing added strain on healthcare providers or emergency services for minor issues that can be treated at home. Even simple guidance, like a reminder that common colds usually resolve without treatment, has shown to reduce appointment demands significantly.
The Local Government Association reports that GPs manage about 57 million cases of minor ailments annually, costing the NHS over £2 billion each year. They advocate for educating the public about effective self-care, which could save GPs valuable time.
Soup is a Good Choice
Chicken soup is easy to make, affordable, and generally safe for most people. Plus, it’s widely perceived as a comforting home remedy for minor illnesses.
However, our review emphasized the need for more research. Future studies should look into standardized soup recipes and whether specific nutrients or herbs offer the best benefits. Does chicken soup operate the same as barley broth or vegetable potage? Is there a difference between homemade and canned versions?
Equally important, future research should measure tangible outcomes: how quickly individuals return to work or school, their sleep quality during illness, and their comfort and energy levels.
While soup can’t replace medication, it may serve as a simple aid to alleviate symptoms and enhance well-being, especially alongside rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
