{"id":22584,"date":"2026-04-29T11:22:48","date_gmt":"2026-04-29T16:22:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/okdiario.com\/metabolic\/en\/?p=22584"},"modified":"2026-04-29T11:22:49","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T16:22:49","slug":"nutritionist-makes-a-strong-statement-on-which-traditional-flu-remedies-really-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/okdiario.com\/metabolic\/en\/nutrition\/nutritionist-makes-a-strong-statement-on-which-traditional-flu-remedies-really-work-22584\/","title":{"rendered":"Nutritionist makes a strong statement on which traditional flu remedies really work"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When the flu hits, many of us still reach for the same home remedies our parents swore by: honey, lemon, ginger, or a hot bowl of chicken soup<\/strong>. But do any of these actually help, or are we just comforting ourselves with tradition? According to nutritional therapist Rakhi Lad, some age-old treatments have withstood the test of modern science, while others are best left in the past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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In a recent interview, Lad explained which traditional flu remedies have real health benefits<\/strong><\/a> and which ones are more myth than medicine<\/strong><\/a>. Alongside input from other dietitians, she shared evidence-based insights into what actually eases symptoms, supports the immune system, and helps you recover more quickly. Here’s what works and what doesn’t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The traditional flu remedies that actually help<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lad says one of the most reliable natural options is honey, particularly raw or M\u0101nuka honey<\/strong>. “Honey has been a go-to for soothing sore throats and coughs for centuries, and science agrees it’s a good choice”, she told Newsweek. Research shows that honey coats the throat, eases irritation, and even suppresses coughing better than some over-the-counter syrups. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adding honey to lemon and ginger tea can make it even more effective<\/strong>. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and may slightly shorten how long flu symptoms last. Ginger, on the other hand, brings powerful anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects that can help fight infection. Lad calls it “a medicinal powerhouse”, especially helpful when nausea or an upset stomach comes with the flu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Another traditional favorite getting more attention is elderberry<\/strong>. Extracts from elderberries have been shown in studies to reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms when taken early. Both elderberries and elderflowers contain antioxidants and flavonoids that may support immune defense and reduce inflammation. While more research is needed, Lad and other experts agree it’s a promising natural remedy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Classic comfort foods also have their place. Chicken soup provides hydration, electrolytes, and amino acids<\/strong> that help the body recover. Dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine points out that “a warm bowl of chicken soup or honey, lemon, and ginger tea can indeed help to soothe flu symptoms”, noting that even part of the benefit comes from the warmth and relaxation they bring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Better ways to ease flu symptoms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While some traditional remedies work, others should probably stay in the history books. Lad says old practices like tying onions to your feet or “sweating out” a fever have no scientific backing<\/strong> and can actually make you feel worse. Eating onions, however, is still a good idea, as they contain quercetin, a compound with antioxidant and antiviral effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Instead of risky DIY cures, Lad recommends a few practical, science-backed steps to manage symptoms and recover comfortably:<\/p>\n\n\n\n