Shops may be stocking up on all things Christmas-y, but ‘tis also the season for stuffed noses, coughs and sore throats--all of which can get you down and take their toll on the festive spirit. Viruses--over 200 different sorts--cause colds, so antibiotics (which treat bacterial infection) can’t be used to cure them. But while there are no ways of getting rid of a cold by popping a pill, you can make the symptoms more bearable.

Start by (really) following the usual recommendations: rest more, drink lots of fluids, gargle and rinse your nose (Google “nasal irrigation” if you don’t know how). And then, eat chicken soup. Lots of it.

The medical profession has finally caught up with your grandmother and studies confirm chicken soup does help alleviate cold symptoms and is a much better (and safer) choice than any over-the-counter medication. The Rennard study, conducted by the University of Nebraska Medical Center, showed that even store-bought chicken soups are effective. But let’s be honest, nothing beats the taste of a homemade one.

“Broths have been used since ancient times to strengthen the body and are extremely nourishing, much more than one would imagine,” says Pascal Henrot, chef at the À la soupe restaurant group that serves, sells and delivers fresh soups in and around the capital.

“When cooking a chicken for soup start it off in cold water to get all of the nutritional elements from the meat. Add a bouquet garni (carrot, leek, thyme, bay and a celery branch), tying it together so it’s easier to remove. Bring to boil, then let simmer, which will allow the elements to disperse in the water. Skim if necessary. You shouldn’t cook poultry for more than an hour if you want to keep all the good stuff,” says Henrot.

With each of us doomed to suffer an average of 200 colds in a lifetime, using a comforting weapon like chicken soup, guaranteed with no side effects, seems like a wise move.

As for prevention, even though strengthening your immune system won’t hurt (especially via probiotics), washing your hands frequently remains the most important thing to do.