The Health Benefits of Eating Soup During Flu Season
Dec 1st 2017
When cold and flu season hits, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to bring warmth, comfort—and real health benefits—to your table. From soothing chicken noodle soups to rich, veggie-packed broths, science shows soup can do more than just lift your spirits.
Here’s why soup has earned its reputation as a trusted ally for wellness, especially during flu season.
The Medicinal & Therapeutic Value of Soup
Ever wondered why loved ones offer chicken soup when you’re under the weather? Beyond tradition, there’s scientific evidence behind this age-old remedy. A study by Dr. Stephen Rennard of the University of Nebraska Medical Center found that chicken soup may help curb the infection that causes colds by slowing the movement of neutrophils—white blood cells that, in excess, can increase inflammation in the respiratory tract.
By reducing inflammation, chicken soup may help ease common cold symptoms like congestion and sore throat. No wonder classics like our Connecticut Cottage Chicken Noodle Soup remain comforting go-tos when sniffles strike.
Warm Liquids That Help You Breathe Easier
Soup isn’t just about what’s in the bowl—it’s also about the warmth itself. A 1978 study by Saketkhoo et al. revealed that sipping hot liquids—including chicken soup—can help loosen mucus, promote better airflow in nasal passages, and relieve congestion more effectively than drinking cold or even hot water alone.
This natural decongestant effect helps explain why a steaming bowl often feels so instantly soothing.
Beyond Chicken: Bone Broth & Its Benefits
Bone broth—made by simmering bones and connective tissue for hours—has gained popularity for its potential health perks. While some claims (like curing arthritis or boosting the immune system dramatically) aren’t fully backed by science, bone broth does contain a moderate amount of protein (about 6–12 grams per cup, according to Cambridge Health Alliance).
Using bone broth as a base and adding vegetables and legumes like carrots, kale, tomatoes, beans, and peas creates hearty soups packed with nutrients, color, and texture.
Herbs, Spices & Immune-Boosting Benefits
Many soup recipes shine thanks to herbs and spices that add flavor and bring potential health benefits:
-
Garlic: May help prevent common colds, lower blood pressure, and support immune health.
-
Ginger: Used for thousands of years, it can help reduce nausea and inflammation and may even support healthy cholesterol levels.
-
Rosemary: Known to support circulation, reduce muscle pain, and promote memory and focus.
-
Curcumin (from turmeric): Offers natural anti-inflammatory properties and may help support mood.
At Frontier Soups, we use these flavorful, functional ingredients in many of our mixes to deliver both taste and nourishment.
Soup for Hydration, Satiety & Overall Wellness
Soups—whether classic chicken, hearty vegetable, or broth-based—help keep you hydrated and full, thanks to their high water content and fiber from added vegetables and legumes. Regularly eating soups, especially those rich in whole ingredients, can support weight management, heart health, and even digestive wellness.
Try this flu season favorite:
-
Connecticut Cottage Chicken Noodle Soup – comforting and classic
-
South of the Border Tortilla Soup – zesty, bean-rich warmth with immune-supporting spices
-
Minnesota Heartland Eleven Bean Soup – a hearty blend of legumes rich in antioxidants and fiber
Final Thoughts
From soothing congestion to delivering immune-supporting nutrients, soups have stood the test of time for good reason. When flu season hits, nourishing yourself with homemade or thoughtfully crafted soup mixes can offer comfort—and a real boost to your body.
References
Effects of drinking hot water, cold water, and chicken soup on nasal mucus velocity and nasal airflow resistance. Chest. 1978 Oct;74(4):408-10. doi: 10.1378/chest.74.4.408. PMID: 359266.
Lee, Gihyun, Bae, Hyunsu, Therapeutic Effects of Phytochemicals and Medicinal Herbs on Depression, BioMed Research International, 2017, 6596241, 11 pages, 2017.
Zhu Y, Hollis JH. Soup consumption is associated with a lower dietary energy density and a better diet quality in US adults. Br J Nutr. 2014 Apr 28;111(8):1474-80. doi: 10.1017/S0007114513003954. Epub 2014 Jan 2. PMID: 24382211.
Flood JE, Rolls BJ. Soup preloads in a variety of forms reduce meal energy intake. Appetite. 2007 Nov;49(3):626-34. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2007.04.002. Epub 2007 Apr 14. PMID: 17574705; PMCID: PMC2128765.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or using food to address specific health concerns.