For centuries, chicken soup has been hailed as a go-to remedy for the common cold. The combination of warm broth, easy-to-digest ingredients, and a comforting sensation has made it a staple in sick day traditions. However, with the rise of convenient canned options like Campbell's, it's important to differentiate between the nutritional benefits of homemade soup and its store-bought counterpart. While a can of Campbell's can provide some temporary relief, its potential downsides must be considered, especially regarding its high sodium content.
The Benefits of Chicken Soup for Cold Symptoms
The reason chicken soup is so effective for symptomatic relief lies in several key factors, which apply to varying degrees whether the soup is homemade or canned.
Provides Essential Hydration
When you're sick, it's easy to become dehydrated, especially if you have a fever, are sweating, or have a runny nose. The broth base of chicken soup is an excellent source of fluids, helping to rehydrate your body and replenish electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Staying hydrated is crucial for thinning mucus, making it easier to expel.
Eases Congestion with Steam
That steaming bowl of soup does more than just warm you up. Inhaling the hot vapors can help to open up nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure. This temporary relief makes breathing easier and can help soothe a sore throat. Studies have shown that the steam from hot chicken soup is more effective at loosening mucus than just hot water alone.
Offers Nutrients and Easy Calories
When your appetite is low, consuming enough calories and nutrients can be a challenge. Chicken soup, including canned varieties, offers a source of protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables. These nutrients provide your body with the energy it needs to fight off infection, all in a format that is gentle on a sensitive stomach. The umami flavor can even help stimulate a better appetite.
Possesses Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Some research suggests that chicken soup can have a mild anti-inflammatory effect. The chicken contains an amino acid called cysteine, which can help break apart mucus. The ingredients, particularly in homemade soup, may also inhibit the migration of white blood cells to inflamed tissues, potentially reducing common cold symptoms.
The Downsides of Canned Soup for a Cold
Despite the comfort it provides, canned soup comes with significant drawbacks, particularly when compared to a homemade version.
High in Sodium
One of the biggest concerns with Campbell's and other canned soups is the extremely high sodium content. While some salt is needed for electrolytes, excessive sodium can be detrimental, especially if you're watching your salt intake. Some dietitians recommend avoiding high-sodium canned soups altogether when sick and opting for low-sodium homemade alternatives. While some salt can soothe a sore throat, too much can impair immune function and lead to dehydration if not balanced with enough water.
Highly Processed with Additives
Canned soups are often more processed than homemade versions, potentially containing preservatives, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and other artificial flavors. While convenient, this processing can reduce the nutritional value of the ingredients. For optimal healing, fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients are always the better choice.
Lower Nutritional Value
Compared to homemade soup made with fresh vegetables and bone broth, the nutritional profile of a canned soup is often lower. The longer ingredients sit, the more nutritional value they lose. Homemade versions allow you to pack in more immune-boosting vegetables like garlic, ginger, and extra herbs that are often absent or minimal in canned products.
Canned vs. Homemade Chicken Soup for Colds
To better illustrate the differences, let's compare the attributes of canned vs. homemade chicken soup when you are sick.
| Feature | Campbell's Canned Chicken Soup | Homemade Chicken Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Very High (ready in minutes) | Low (requires preparation) |
| Sodium Content | Very High (up to 890mg per serving) | Low to Controlled (can be customized) |
| Nutritional Density | Lower (due to processing) | Higher (using fresh ingredients) |
| Symptom Relief | Provides some hydration and steam relief | Provides hydration, steam, and potent anti-inflammatory effects |
| Flavor Control | Fixed, often enhanced by MSG | Customizable, uses fresh herbs and spices |
| Health Impact | Offers some comfort, but high sodium can be a drawback | Maximum nutritional benefits, tailored for healing |
What to Choose: The Final Verdict
While is Campbell's chicken soup good for a cold? The answer is yes, in a limited and conditional sense. It can provide a warm, comforting liquid that helps with hydration and temporary congestion relief. It is a quick and easy option when you're too exhausted to cook. However, it is far from the best choice. The high sodium content can counteract some of its benefits, and a homemade version will always be superior in providing the fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients your body needs to recover effectively. If you do opt for canned soup, look for a low-sodium version and supplement it with fresh vegetables or herbs to boost its nutritional power. In the end, a homemade broth is the best option to maximize your recovery efforts.
Conclusion
When you're sick, the goal is to nourish your body and alleviate symptoms, not to find a "cure." While the warmth and hydration from a bowl of Campbell's chicken soup can provide some comfort and temporary relief, its high sodium and processed nature make it a less-than-ideal choice. Homemade chicken soup, with its fresh ingredients, lower sodium, and potent anti-inflammatory properties, remains the optimal choice for supporting your immune system. Whether you choose canned or homemade, remember that plenty of fluids, rest, and healthy foods are the true pillars of recovery.
