​A healthy diet is crucial to help the body after a bout of infections​

Nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supply vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants vital for immune function. Proper nutrition helps the body fight off infections, reduces inflammation, and provides energy for recovery. A well-balanced diet accelerates the healing process, ensures optimal immune response, and helps alleviate symptoms, promoting a quicker and more robust recovery from cold and flu. Here’s a suggested 7-day diet plan that focuses on nutrient-rich foods to aid recovery:

​Day 1: Start the week with oats​

Breakfast: Oatmeal with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of chia seeds.

Lunch: Chicken soup with vegetables (carrots and spinach).

Snack: Greek yogurt with honey and almonds.

Dinner: Baked fish with quinoa and steamed broccoli.

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​Day 2: Include chicken, avocado​

Breakfast: Whole-grain toast with avocado and poached eggs.

Lunch: Lentil soup with whole-grain crackers.

Snack: Sliced oranges and a handful of walnuts.

Dinner: Grilled chicken breast, sweet potato

​Day 3: A creamy rich smoothie is a good addition​

Breakfast: Smoothie with berries, spinach, Greek yogurt, and a teaspoon of honey.

Lunch: Vegetable stir-fry with tofu and brown rice.

Snack: Cottage cheese with pineapple chunks.

Dinner: Kidney beans and mixed vegetables.

​Day 4: Almond butter is a nutrient-powerhouse​

Breakfast: Whole-grain cereal with milk and sliced strawberries.

Lunch: Quinoa salad with chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.

Snack: Apple slices with almond butter.

Dinner: Baked cod with roasted Brussels sprouts and quinoa.

​Day 5: Nothing can go wrong with eggs, spinach​

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach and whole-grain toast.

Lunch: Minestrone soup with whole-grain bread.

Snack: Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus.

Dinner: Stir-fried shrimp with broccoli, bell peppers, and brown rice.

​Day 6: A mix of berries and protein rich food​

Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with granola and mixed berries.

Lunch: Spinach and kale salad with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.

Snack: Mango slices with a handful of pistachios.

Dinner: Baked tilapia with quinoa and asparagus.

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​Day 7: A wholesome vegetable wrap to end the week​

Breakfast: Whole-grain pancakes with maple syrup and sliced peaches.

Lunch: Turkey and vegetable wrap with whole-grain tortilla.

Snack: Mixed fruit salad (kiwi, orange, and berries).

Dinner: Vegetable curry with chickpeas and brown rice.

​Takeaway message​

While this diet plan will suit people of all age groups, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if you have any dietary restrictions or specific health conditions. Remember, a good diet is the core of a healthy body.