What to Eat When You’re Feeling Sick: Vegan Recovery Tips

Well first of all there is the question of whether or not to eat when you feel ill (and vegan). Depending on the type of illness you may lose appetite altogether, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect sustenance.

First of all, pay attention to hydration. There are some great drinks and soups that are easily digested that do not put much pressure on your body system. Let me explain that your first and foremost aim is to provide the tools that your body needs to heal. Water is primary. Nutrients and natural herbs, spices, vegetables that have properties connected with your perceived illness may also be useful.

I knew that I was getting a cold because of that tickly feeling at the back of my throat. I’ve had the feeling before, and if treated early enough, any illness can be stopped in it’s tracks. It was Tuesday afternoon, but by the time I got home that evening, I figured I’d be sick – didn’t get any in-time treatment and sure enough 4 days later I’m still recovering. So what did I do? First of all, because it was a cold I made golden milk, but doctored (lots of cloves – yes too many fell in, but it helps you sleep better) cayenne pepper, turmeric, almond milk, honey. Then I had a hot shower and put myself to bed. I made a lot so that I could drink more through the evening, at night – I think I woke up twice (just half a cup topped up with hot water from my thermos) and in the morning. Pay attention to how you feel throughout. I felt rather cold around 4am, so I fetched another blanket and snuggled back to sleep after the drink.

I took garlic capsules 6 at a time, every 4 hours until I felt a bit better, then 5, then 4, etc. stretched out over 3 days. By 4pm of day 2 I felt a little hungry and that’s when this question came to mind… what to eat? It should be nutritious, but nothing that would need a lot of energy for my body to digest. I settled on:

Avocado Toast Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 slices of whole grain or sourdough bread
• A pinch of salt
• A squeeze of lemon or lime juice (optional)
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or black pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toast the Bread: Lightly toast your bread slices until they’re golden and crisp.
2. Prepare the Avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash it with a fork until it reaches your desired consistency.
3. Season: Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the mashed avocado for extra flavor.
4. Assemble: Spread the avocado mixture evenly over the toasted bread slices.
5. Garnish: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or black pepper on top.

Of course, I didn’t have any bread, so substituted a roti from the freezer, I also sauteed a small onion (slice into rings – cook through but leave a little crunch).

Sorry, no pics. I whoopsed it off, but will make again next week, God willing.

Other options for the future:

1. Vegan Broth or Soup: A warm vegetable broth or a simple soup made with carrots, celery, and onions can be soothing and hydrating.
2. Oatmeal: Cook some plain oats with water or plant-based milk. You can add a bit of cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup or agave for sweetness.
3. Smoothies: Blend a banana with some spinach, a scoop of almond butter, and plant-based milk for a nutrient-rich smoothie that’s easy to digest.
4. Rice and Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots with plain rice can be easy on the stomach.
5. Herbal Teas: Ginger or peppermint tea can be soothing for the throat and help with digestion.