Health · Medical Research · 3 hrs ago
Early studies suggest soup may ease respiratory infection symptoms
A review found early evidence that soup may help with respiratory infections such as colds, flu and COVID-19.
The review examined four studies involving 342 people who ate chicken broth, barley soup or herbal vegetable soups.
In one study, people who ate soup recovered up to 2.5 days faster than those who did not, and some symptoms were milder.
Some participants also had lower levels of two proteins linked to inflammation, but the studies do not show exactly how soup might affect recovery.
The evidence is promising but limited, and none of the studies measured outcomes such as time off work or hospital visits.
Soup may offer warmth, fluids and nutrients, while familiar home remedies can also provide comfort during illness.
More research is needed to learn whether soup improves everyday outcomes for people with respiratory infections.
A review of four studies found early evidence that soup may ease symptoms and shorten recovery from acute respiratory infections.
The studies involved 342 participants and tested chicken broth, barley soup and herbal vegetable blends.
One study found that people who ate soup recovered up to 2.5 days faster than those who did not.
Some participants who ate soup had milder symptoms and lower levels of inflammation-related markers.
The review said the studies did not assess effects on everyday outcomes such as time off work or hospital admissions.
- Who
- Researchers reviewed studies involving 342 participants.
- What
- The review found early evidence that soup may ease respiratory infection symptoms and speed recovery.
- When
- The article was published on 13 October 2026. The studies’ dates are not stated.
- Where
- Not stated
- Why
- Soup may be warm, hydrating and nutrient-rich, and some ingredients may have anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Studies reviewed
- 4 high-quality studies
- Participants
- 342
- Recovery difference
- Up to 2.5 days faster in one study among people who ate soup
- Inflammation markers
- IL-6 and TNF-α were lower in some participants who consumed soup
- Soup varieties
- Chicken broth, barley soup and herbal vegetable blends
What people are saying
While still early-stage, the evidence was promising.
That’s a major gap in the evidence, and one that future research needs to address.
Sources
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