Don't look now, but the cold and flu season is fast approaching. And when you catch a bug this winter, people will recommend all sorts of dietary cures to hasten recovery. Registered dietitian Joanne Larsen, who runs the popular Web site Ask the Dietitian, has her own advice based on science, not old wives' tales.
Take our nutrition quiz, based on her findings:
1. Which liquid is better at thinning and draining mucous secretions?
A) iced carbonated beverages
B) chicken noodle soup
C) a finger of Scotch
D) Gatorade
E) cod liver oil
2. Which dairy product should be avoided because it increases phlegm or upper respiratory tract symptoms?
A) cream-based soups
B) ice cream
C) pudding
D) all of the above
E) none of the above
3. If you've been vomiting, wait one hour and then try to consume:
A) water
B) flat lemon-lime carbonated beverages
C) grape juice
D) B and C
E) A and B
4. To help control diarrhea symptoms, try:
A) banana
B) applesauce
C) rice
D) All of the above
E) None of the above
ANSWERS: 1. B; 2. E; 3. E; 4. D
Source: www.dietitian.com
– Sam McManis
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