Drink No. 1 That Saves You from Colds: What to Drink When Your Body is Fighting an Illness

When we are sick, whether it’s a cold, flu, allergy, or another infection, the body loses a lot of fluids. When you curl up on the couch with a box of tissues, the last thing you think about is what to drink. But it is the fluids we consume that can significantly affect the speed of recovery.

From ginger tea to orange juice and even neon sports drinks — the choice is vast. But Real Simple has reported which drink is actually the most effective, and the consensus is unanimous — water.

Water — The First Assistant in Fighting Illness

When we are sick, whether it’s a cold, flu, allergy, or another infection, the body loses a lot of fluids and requires additional energy to fight the illness. Therefore, there must be enough water.

Symptoms like sweating, fever, nausea, or diarrhea lead to fluid and electrolyte loss. If you don’t drink enough water, mucus becomes thicker, circulation worsens, and immune cells have a harder time reaching the site of infection. Water helps prevent dehydration, which significantly complicates the body’s fight against infection.

What Water Does for the Body

Maintains blood volume and nutrient delivery. Water ensures stable blood circulation, which helps the body deliver oxygen, electrolytes, and immune cells where they are needed most. This allows for a quicker response to infection.

Supports immunity. Insufficient water intake raises cortisol levels — the stress hormone that suppresses immune functions. At the same time, proper hydration helps maintain the balance of gut microbiota and the number of immune cells, which is critical for fighting viruses and bacteria.

Regulates body temperature and lymphatic system function. Water helps the body maintain temperature during fever and improves lymph flow — this is key for transporting immune cells and eliminating toxins.

Prevents muscle cramps and constipation. During illness, the body particularly needs fluids. Water hydrates the intestines, prevents constipation, supports muscles and kidneys, and reduces the risk of stones and infections.

Improves mood and cognitive functions. Even mild dehydration can affect short-term memory, concentration, attention, and mood. Therefore, water is not only medicine for the body but also for the brain.

How to Make Water Tastier When You’re Sick

Drinking water is easy when everything is fine. But when your throat hurts or you feel nauseous, it’s a completely different story.

With lemon and honey — honey coats the throat, lemon adds flavor and a bit of vitamin C.
With cucumber or ginger — cucumber refreshes and soothes, ginger helps with nausea.
Water temperature — warm water is more comfortable during a cold, cool but not icy water is better for an upset stomach.
Small portions, but often — small sips are easier to manage than large ones.

Water is your main ally when your body is fighting an illness. It helps you stay hydrated, supports immunity, improves mood, and even speeds up recovery. So keep a glass of clean water nearby, and your recovery will be quick and comfortable.