© istockphoto, Rafal Stakhura
Chicken soup has been used for centuries as a proven home remedy for upper respiratory ailments. But does this soup really help with recovery? The throat is sore, the nose is running – there used to be hot chicken soup. However, researchers from the University of Nebraska have now been able to scientifically prove in their research that this is not just a superstition.
Neutrophils are blocked
The researchers prepared chicken soup with the following ingredients: chicken and vegetables, including onions, potatoes, carrots, celery and parsley. And so: in the body, very specific white blood cells – so-called neutrophils – which are jointly responsible for inflammatory processes, are blocked in their movement. These neutrophils are released in large numbers during viral infections, including the common cold. They cause inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract.
Further research also shows that the carnosine found in chicken breast has a positive effect on our immune system. Thanks to this, pathogens can be prevented and fought better.
Temperature-sensitive viruses
In addition, the heat of chicken soup helps fight cold viruses. Viruses are sensitive to temperature, so their reproduction is inhibited. At the same time, the hot steam moisturizes the mucous membranes, which helps the outflow of secretions into the respiratory tract.
If you want to increase the anti-inflammatory effect of chicken soup, you can prepare a piece of ginger root, some chili and a handful of black beans.
Recipe: Chicken soup with rice
Ingredients for 6 people:
- 1 soup chicken
- 1 bulb
- 1 bunch of soup greens
- 2 tablespoons of parsley
- 2 cups of rice
- 3 teaspoons of instant vegetable broth
- salt and pepper
- 3 liters of water
Pour water into a large saucepan and bring to a boil with a pinch of salt. Now put the chicken without giblets in the pan and add some pepper. The chicken should be stewed over low heat for about 1.5 hours.
Meanwhile, wash the soup greens, peel the onion and cut everything into small pieces. Now remove the chicken and set aside. Put the chopped vegetables and rice in a pot and season with vegetable broth. After about 20 minutes, the rice and vegetables are ready.
Remove the skin and bones from the chicken and add to the soup in pieces. Let the chicken soup boil again. Sprinkle with some parsley before serving. This chicken rice soup recipe is especially good for a cold or fever and is easy to make yourself.
Updated: 02.01.2020
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