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Nutrition & Diet
Question #22881
26 days ago
51

what to eat during cold and cough - #22881

Swara

I am dealing with this annoying cold and cough and can't seem to shake it off. I went to the doctor a couple of days ago, and they just said it's viral. They recommended some rest and over-the-counter meds, but I really want to focus on what to eat during cold and cough to help speed things up. I've heard some folks talk about chicken soup being great, but like, is there any specific thing that I should be loading up on? My throat feels scratchy, and I’ve also got this nagging cough that's just... ugh. It's like every time I think I'm getting better, I just start hacking again. I’ve tried drinking more water, but I'm also looking for some comfort food ideas. What's actually good for getting over a cold? Should I be avoiding dairy or something? I don’t wanna make my cough worse. Any fruits or veggies that can really help? Maybe like warming teas or broths? Super confused about what to eat during cold and cough. I’d appreciate any suggestions, thanks!

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Doctors' responses

When dealing with a bothersome cold and cough, what you eat can play a supportive role in your recovery. First off, that chicken soup you mentioned isn’t just an old wives’ tale; it can actually help. It’s easy on the throat, provides fluids, and may reduce inflammation due to certain amino acids released in the cooking process. Aim to consume warm broths or soups—these can help keep you hydrated and soothe a sore throat. Warm teas, particularly those with ginger or honey, can also be beneficial. Honey, for example, can be soothing and potentially reduce coughing, and ginger may help an irritated throat with its anti-inflammatory properties. You mentioned your throat feels scratchy, so opting for soft foods like oatmeal or mashed sweet potatoes can make swallowing less uncomfortable. In terms of specific fruits and veggies, citrus fruits like oranges are a good source of vitamin C, which might help your immune system. However, they can be irritating to a sore throat so consume them with caution. Instead, you might opt for berries or bananas which are softer and easy to eat. Vegetables such as spinach or kale can provide important nutrients and are gentle on the system when cooked. As for dairy, while it doesn’t necessarily increase mucus production (a common myth), it can create a feeling of thicker mucus for some people. If you feel it makes your symptoms worse, you might want to avoid it. Staying hydrated is crucial, so continue drinking plenty of water or herbal teas. However, avoid alcohol and caffeine which can dehydrate you. If your cough is persistent or worsening, you’ll want to follow up with your doctor. It’s important not to ignore symptoms that persist or escalate. Rest and proper nutrition can indeed help support your immune system while it battles the virus, but it’s always important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you have concerns.

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