The University of Nebraska Medical Center reports that Dr. Stephen Rennard, researcher and Professor of Medicine, conducted a study to determine if chicken soup has any anti-inflammatory properties. Rennard’s study concluded that eating his wife’s family recipe for chicken soup blocks the movement of white blood cells that cause inflammation.

Inflammation in the upper respiratory tract contributes to cold symptoms. A reduction in this inflammation leads to a lessening of these symptoms.

So enjoying a steaming bowl of chicken soup can make a medical difference in the severity of the common cold!

Rennard’s study also concluded that for chicken soup to be effective against the common cold, it must contain both chicken AND vegetables. 

A soothing recipe of chicken soup provides much more than anti-inflammatories! A whole chicken, chicken wings, onions, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, carrots, celery stems and parsley were in the Lithuanian family chicken soup recipe that Rennard studied. 

Chicken contains cysteine, an amino acid which dissolves thick mucus. 

Carrots, sweet potatoes, parsnips, and parsley are all good sources of Vitamin A, which supports lung health and boosts the immune system. 

Turnips, celery and parsley are excellent sources of the Vitamin C that the body must have in order to maintain a healthy immune system.

If your family is suffering from the common cold, prepare a warm and delicious version your favorite chicken soup recipe that is loaded with love to help them feel better.

For a delicious Asian twist on chicken noodle soup try this Chicken Udon Noodle Soup, it's chock full of chicken and vegetables with loads of thick udon noodles.