Antibiotics are drugs that are used to fight bacterial infections; they are ineffective against viral infections. Most colds, coughs and flus are caused by viruses. Your diet can help support your immune system by providing essential nutrients. Antibiotics also disrupt the balance of bacteria in your body, which can lead to other illnesses. Eat foods that replenish good bacteria -- called probiotics -- when taking antibiotics.
Antibiotic Basics
Antibiotics should be used only when necessary, to avoid becoming resistant to this class of drugs. Overuse of antibiotics can cause a "bacterial resistance," which means the medication may not be as effective the next time you need it. If antibiotics are necessary, make sure to finish the entire course of your prescription to ensure that the infection is gone. Antibiotics work by killing the harmful bacteria in your body, but they also kill beneficial bacteria needed to aid digestion and support your immune system. Your diet during your illness should include nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, as well as fermented foods such as yogurt, which contain beneficial bacteria called probiotics.
Foods that Fight Candida
Women may experience a higher rate of yeast infections after taking antibiotics. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Candida albicans. Candida is normally kept in check by beneficial bacteria; but antibitoics kill those friendly bacteria and allow candida to flourish. Yogurt contains the specific strain of probiotic bacteria -- Lactobacillus acidophilus -- that fights candida. Yogurt, kefir or probiotic supplements can be taken. Eat unsweetened yogurt, notes MayoClinic.com, because candida feeds on sugar. Limiting sugar and empty calories will help your body fight a possible yeast infection. A candida overgrowth can cause jock itch, oral thrush and athlete's foot, in addition to vaginal yeast infections.
Foods that Support Your Liver
Your liver is an organ of detoxification and helps to break-down medication. When you use antibiotics, it places an additional strain on your liver. Eating foods that support liver function -- kale, collards, swiss chard, broccoli, beets and artichokes -- will help keep bile flowing, says Arlene Donar, a naturopathic doctor based in New York. Other foods that support liver function include those high in sulfur, such as eggs, garlic, onions and legumes, and foods high in soluble fiber, such as oatmeal, apples and pears. Make sure you eat the skin of fruits and vegetables for extra fiber.
Foods that Strengthen Your Immune System
You can help the antibiotics work and may be able to prevent future illnesses by strengthening your immune system. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that you boost your immune system by limiting foods high in saturated fat, such as full-fat dairy and red meat, and by eating more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Foods high in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and iron are specifically recommended. Sweet potatoes, carrots, mangoes and cantaloupe are good sources of vitamin A, and you'll find vitamin C in red bell peppers, strawberries and oranges. In addition to nonfat dairy, leafy green vegetables and beans are good sources of both calcium and iron.
