Why Do We Eat Chicken Noodle Soup When We're Sick?
NEWS
By ELIAS NASH
Chicken soup has been used
for medicinal purposes since ancient times, but its reputation in the West was largely shaped by the 12th-century Jewish philosopher Moses Maimonides.
He advocated treating illnesses through diet and hygiene measures such as exercise, fresh air, and chicken soup. He noted that the dish could help with coughs and chronic fevers.
Chicken soup, however, will not cure a cold but a 2000 study at the University of Nebraska Medical Center showed that chicken soup has some anti-inflammatory effects.
Research shows that chicken soup can reduce the number of white blood cells that migrate to your sinuses, soothing inflammation.
It can soothe several common symptoms, boost your immune system, and is also helpful for illnesses that affect your sinuses and digestive tract.
More importantly, chicken soup is easy to digest and helps sick patients recover their appetite, which is essential for getting your body back into optimal condition.