The flu, also known as influenza, is an invasion of the body by a foreign virus. Your own body has an army of antibodies designed to identify and destroy this virus but it needs all of your body's energy and resources to win the battle. You may feel fatigued, nauseous and like you don't have an appetite if you have the flu simply because your body will try to shut down your digestive processes so that it can combat the viral invader.
The first thing to remember when you have the flu is to go right to bed. Sleep gives your immune system the opportunity to renew itself. The fact that you might not be able to handle many types of foods while you have the flu makes the drinking fresh juices a recommended and convenient way to rehydrate and nourish a fevered body.
If you do have the flu you may find it hard to drink any juiced drinks straight. You should drink large amounts fluids but make sure that all of the juices that you drink are well diluted with high quality spring water.
You should also avoid or limit the amount of sweet tasting foods that you eat or drink including fruit juice when you have the flu. Even orange juice is a big no no when you have an infection. This is because studies have show that sugar – even sugar from natural sources decreases the ability of your white blood cells to destroy bacteria and viruses.
When you are able to handle vegetable juices you should add garlic to them. The allicin component of garlic is also known as 'Russian Penicillin' and the juiced version is a powerful antibacterial and antiviral agent.
Drinking cabbage juice is also highly recommended if you have the flue. Cabbage juice stimulates the body to produce more antibodies to combat infections. In a test tube, studies have shows cabbage juice is so strong that it can actually kill viruses and bacteria.
If you have the flu there are several nutrients that you are going to need more than usual. They include potassium, sodium, vitamin C and various bioflavanoids. Zinc also promotes healing of sore throats and respiratory symptoms. You can get these in ample healthy amounts by making your own juice full of these nutrients.
For instance blueberry juice can help with diarrhea. Grape, apple and cabbage juices help fight viruses and bacteria. Pineapple juice can help heal and settle a grumpy stomach. Another thing about pineapple is that it can help cure a sore throat because it has anti-inflammatories in it.
Juices made of garlic, kale and tomato can also help settle an upset stomach and keep you well nourished while you are sick. The garlic is anti viral and antibacterial and the tomato is full of bioflavanoids and Vitamin C. The Kale also helps cool down feverish brains and racing minds due to delirium.