Is chicken soup good for chest congestion?
James Craig
Published Jan 18, 2026
A scientific study found that chicken soup has anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, it relieves congestion by reducing the movement of white blood cells in the upper respiratory tract.
What soup is good for chest congestion?
Chicken soup and other fluids can improve symptoms. Drinking plenty of liquids, such as water, juice, clear broth or chicken soup helps loosen mucus that can cause congestion and helps prevent dehydration.
Is chicken soup good for lungs?
Hot soups in general help keep nasal passages moist, thin out mucus, prevent dehydation, and sooth a sore throat, so what is it about the chicken? Chicken contains an amino acid called cysteine that is released when the soup is made. This amino acid thins mucus in the lungs, aiding in the healing process.
Is chicken soup good for mucus?
Modern research has actually shown that chicken soup, more than other hot liquid, increases mucus flow and helps the body rid itself of the cold virus. Chicken is rich in an amino acid called cysteine which helps loosen secretions.
Is chicken soup good for chest infection?
Chicken soup may contain a number of substances with beneficial medicinal activity including an anti-inflammatory mechanism that could ease the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, according to a new study.
32 related questions foundIs chicken soup good for pneumonia?
Water, Tea, and Soup
But they're extra important when you have pneumonia, because they help loosen the mucus in your lungs. That way, you can get rid of it when you cough. Your best options include water, warm tea, and broth-based soups, like chicken soup.
Is soup Good for mucus?
One study found that hot liquids in general help loosen nasal mucus more than cool ones—and chicken soup does a better job than other warm liquids. Sipping soup warms your nasal passages and allows you to clear out the mucus, helping you feel better.
Is chicken broth good for upper respiratory infection?
Chicken soup has long been regarded as a remedy for symptomatic upper respiratory tract infections.
Does chicken soup help with virus?
Chicken and veggies may fight viruses
Homemade chicken soup may exert anti-inflammatory activity on neutrophils, the white blood cells that respond to infection, found a now-famous study published in the journal CHEST in 2000. This, in turn, may help alleviate symptoms of a cold.
Does soup help with bronchitis?
Soup will only help temporarily with your symptoms and won't actually cure your bronchitis. You'll need to see a doctor for medical treatment. Using a humidifier and taking an over-the-counter medication that includes expectorants may help relieve bronchitis symptoms.
Which soup is best for lung infection?
Chicken soup is a known kitchen remedy for those under the weather. A good number of articles on chicken soup as an aid in the fight against the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has surfaced.
Is chicken soup a good remedy for a cold?
In fact, chicken soup is good for soothing both cold and flu symptoms. The hot soup helps break up the congestion associated with both colds and the flu. The salt in the soup and its warmth can soothe a sore throat.
Which soup is best for lungs?
Chef Vaibhav Bhargawa, an expert in Asian Cuisine, shares a soup recipe which with ingredients in any kitchen, that help to improve the respiratory system. Broccoli is a great source of vitamins K and C, a good source of folate (folic acid) and also provides potassium, fiber.
What is chicken soup good for?
When cooked, chicken broth helps sooth the body with heat, hydration, and nutrients. Chicken broth is rich with vitamins and minerals, which are useful against common ailments like the common cold, the flu, and food poisoning. The broth also provides several other notable health benefits, such as: Weight management.
Does chicken soup help a cough?
Even the steam from your chicken soup is beneficial. "Steam can open up airways, making it easier to breathe. It also has a mild anti-inflammatory effect that can help relax your muscles and soothe the discomforts of cold symptoms," Allonen said.
Does chicken soup reduce inflammation?
Other key ingredients in a chicken soup include onions, garlic and additional vegetables that add flavour and a healthy dose of phytonutrients - vital for a well-functioning immune system. They can also help to reduce inflammation in the body, which in turn may help to ease the symptoms of a pesky cold.
Is soup Good for respiratory problems?
Dr. Rennard found that chicken soup contains a number of substances -- including an anti-inflammatory mechanism -- that could ease the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. The suspected benefits of chicken soup in terms of cold relief have been touted for centuries.
Why do doctors recommend chicken soup?
"It's packed with a range of macro- and micronutrients, including protein, fiber, B vitamins, vitamin C, amino acids, and more. It also contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients." Research suggests that chicken noodle soup may prove particularly beneficial when you're sick.
Does hot soup help chest congestion?
Chicken soup also contains cold-fighting compounds that help dissolve mucus in the lungs and suppress inflammation. Research confirms that a hot beverage can reduce congestion and other cold and flu symptoms.
How can I clear mucus from my lungs?
Deep breathing is a simple technique to expand your lungs and help clear your phlegm. You can do this many times during the day in any place or position. Make sure you are comfortable and your chest and shoulders are relaxed. Sit or lie in a comfortable position.
Which food is good for chest infection?
Fruit and vegetables have vitamins and minerals that support your immune system to help you fight off chest infections. Starchy carbohydrates give your body energy for breathing and everyday tasks. Choose high fibre or wholegrain versions, such as brown pasta and rice or wholemeal bread.
What foods help with breathing problems?
Here Are 10 Foods That Can Help You Breath Better:
- Apples. Researchers have linked good lung function with high intakes of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, all of which are present in apples. ...
- Walnuts. Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. ...
- Berries. ...
- Broccoli. ...
- Cayenne Pepper. ...
- Ginger. ...
- Flaxseeds. ...
- Garlic.
Does chicken soup make you feel better?
The carrots, celery, and onion provide antioxidants and vitamins A and C, which are proven to strengthen the immune system and help prevent viruses. The chicken itself provides protein, which also supports the immune system and can help you feel better faster, and the noodles provide carbs, which help you feel full.
Is chicken soup good for throat infection?
The broth in chicken soup provides soothing relief when you have a sore throat and helps boost white blood cells called neutrophils, which help the immune system fight infection.
Can we eat chicken during cold and cough?
Omega-3s provide an anti-inflammatory benefit for long-term health and recovery. Chicken is high in protein and other micronutrients, including selenium. Selenium acts as an antioxidant, which helps relieve some symptoms of the common cold.