What to eat to recover from illness

If you’ve been unwell it can be tempting to eat comfort foods, but the best way to recover is to be clever about what you eat.

When recovering from illness, your body is working extra hard to repair and rebuild itself.  Any type of illness can cause low energy and a loss of appetite, leading to depleted nutrients and weight loss.  So choosing foods that give you  the right nutrients and building blocks for healing is essential for returning to good health.

Probiotics for good bacteria – best found in natural yoghurts and probiotic drinks – If your doctor has prescribed you a dose of antibiotics to beat a nasty bacterial infection, you may experience digestive after effects

Protein – best found in lean meats, spinach, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds – Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues.  We also use protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals.  Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood

Vitamin C – best found in papayas, bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries and kiwi fruit – Vitamin C is vital antioxidant to help your cells’ recovery after battling an illness

Hydration – best found in water and herbal teas, especially dandelion – Keeping yourself hydrated is very important during an illness.  Dehydration can lead to fatigue, weakness, light-headedness and nausea.