What to Eat When You Have a Cold

Q: I've got a cold. What can I eat to feel better fast?

A: Start with a bowl of Mom's chicken soup. Research has yet to show how it works (and how the heck Ma knew), but we do know that a nutrient-rich diet builds your immune system and fights inflammation. This season, stock up on these healing foods: Orange Juice Vitamin C may shorten the duration of your cold, helping you get back on your feet.

Oatmeal, bananas, fish, chicken, turkey They help maintain the health of organs that make infection-fighting white blood cells.

Apples, cranberries, tomato sauce These contain flavonoids, anti-inflammatory substances that can strengthen your immune system.