Chicken soup is one of our favorite foods to eat when we’re not feeling well.
But was grandma rightis it actually good for you?
Here we took a closer look at why a bowl of chicken soup is comforting and healthy.
It’s that time of year again.
Leaves are changing, temps are droppingsnowfall is not far behind.
With the changing seasons and cooler temps also comes a higher likelihood and risk of colds and flu.
Then specifically, from a nutrition front, there’s one dish that emerges more than any other.
In fact, chicken soup has been “prescribed” for the common cold for centuries.
“The best and healthiest chicken soup is usually the one you make yourself.
The key is ingredients.
(OurClassic Chicken Souprecipe, pictured above, fits the bill.)
That means the hot chicken soup can help clear your airways and easing congestion.
Make your chicken soup withgarlic and lots of veggiesespecially dark, leafy greensto boost up the inflammation-fighting compounds.
The chicken itself delivers protein, which is an important nutrient for satisfaction, immunity and your muscles.
Chicken also delivers zinc, a key immunity nutrient.
Lastlythe noodles you choose are important.
Cookbook author, Dana Angelo White, M.S., R.D., A.T.C.
has a DIY-broth trick that starts with rotisserie chicken.
“Making your own chicken stock is ridiculously simple.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer (uncovered) for about 2 to 3 hours.
Strain and store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.”
Get inspired by thesehealthy recipes for broth and stock.
If you’re not making broth from scratch, though, use a store-bought stock or bone broth.
Add veggies
Once you’ve figured out your broth, it’s time to up the veggies.
Choose nutrition powerhouses like garlic and ginger to add flavor and nutrients.
More veggies means more color, more flavor and the better for you.
Go whole grain
Growing up, my mom always served her chicken soup soup over orzo.
Get creative with whole-wheat pasta, quinoa, bean-based pasta, barley or wild rice.
Top it right
Finally, think about what you top and serve your soup with.
If you are a fan of crusty bread with your soup aim to make that whole-grain as well.
What about store-bought soup?
Most canned and boxed soups at the store are going to be higher in sodium and lower in vegetables.
Compare labels for sodium content and read ingredient lists to find an option that feels close to homemade.
