Does chicken soup really help when you’re sick? A nutrition specialist explains what’s behind the beloved comfort food

A bowl of chicken soup typically contains protein, vegetables and soothing broth. Westend61 via Getty ImagesPreparing a bowl of chicken soup for a loved one when they’re sick has been a common practice throughout the world for centuries. Today, generations from virtually every culture swear to the benefits of chicken soup. In the U.S., the dish is typically made with noodles, but different cultures prepare the soothing remedy their own way. Chicken soup as a therapy can be traced back to 60 A.D.