The Cold and Flu Viral Remedy You Shouldn’t Skip
Turns out grandma was right—chicken soup really is medicine, and science is finally catching up to the comfort it’s been delivering for generations.
Last week, my husband and I were in London on a business trip (yes, Ajenda is expanding to the UK!) when he came down with a mild upper respiratory virus. We’re talking dry cough, aches, pains, and a fever of 100.1. All the classic cold symptoms.
The first thing I did was a Covid test, so if he was positive he could start Paxlovid. Thankfully, he was negative. And because his symptoms were mild (meaning it likely wasn’t influenza either!) the next thing his doctor wife did for him was order him some chicken soup.
Why? Because there is real scientific evidence that chicken soup helps with viral illnesses such as the common cold and flu!
But how, exactly? Here are the several biological mechanisms through which chicken soup may provide some (much-needed) relief:
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
A 2000 study by Dr. Stephen Rennard (University of Nebraska) found that chicken soup may help reduce neutrophil migration.
“Neutophil what?” Neutrophils are white blood cells that play a key role in inflammation and mucus production in respiratory infections—AKA why your nose feels so clogged. (The worst.)
By reducing neutrophil activity, chicken soup may help decrease nasal congestion, curb mucus overproduction, and soothe throat irritation. We love to see it.
Mucus Clearance & Nasal Hydration:
The best way to eat chicken soup? Piping hot. And that heat does more than enhance flavor—it helps loosen mucus and keeps airways hydrated.
That’s because warm fluids promote nasal mucus flow, improving clearance and relieving congestion. So when your mom (or grandma) suggested tea or a hot toddy when you were sick, they were onto something!
Immune System Support:
The ingredients in this power-packed soup—hearty broth, carrots, celery, melt-in-your-mouth chicken—deliver essential amino acids and nutrients that give your immune system the fuel it needs to recover.
- Zoom In: When you cook chicken, it releases the amino acid cysteine. This compound is chemically similar to N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and is used as a mucus thinner. And those bones used in the broth? They’re full of zinc—a well-known immune-boosting mineral that helps white blood cells fight off infections.
Hydration & Electrolyte Balance:
If the cold or flu becomes severe (let’s hope it doesn’t!) it can lead to intense dehydration from fever, sweating, and increased mucus production.
Fortunately, chicken soup can help. Its broth is brimming with fluids and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, to maintain your hydration and energy levels.
Psychological & Comfort Benefits:
There’s nothing quite like that first sip of steamy soup. It soothes the throat, warms you up, and delivers an instant sense of comfort.
Part of this magic is the placebo effect: If you believe chicken soup helps, those positive expectations can actually make you feel better. This is a real phenomenon, not some ‘woo-woo’ hocus pocus!
Supported Gut Health
Is simmering chicken broth for 12-24 hours worth it? Absolutely. Slow cooking lets the bones release collagen and gelatin, which support gut health by strengthening the intestinal lining—a key player in immune function.
Of course, chicken soup is not a cure. But it does have real anti-inflammatory, mucus-thinning, and hydrating effects that can alleviate those pesky symptoms and help you recover from viral infections—fast. A time-tested (and delicious) remedy backed by science? Yes, please.
P.S. My husband was a very good patient and is back to his super high-energy self!
