can i drink sugarcane juice during cold - #23326
I am feeling pretty awful right now – been battling this nasty cold for a few days. Can't shake off the runny nose and that ticklish cough. I've tried resting, but it doesn't seem to help that much. Anyway, my mom always used to say that sugarcane juice is great for boosting immunity and gives energy. I remember having it all the time in summer. But now, with this cold, I’m wondering “can I drink sugarcane juice during cold?” I mean, I really crave that sweet, refreshing taste, but I'm unsure if it’s a good idea. I did some googling and some say it may increase mucus and others seem to think it’s helpful for recovery. I also get confused because it feels cold and sweet, and I'm not sure if that could make my throat feel worse. Also, is there a right amount to drink or should I stay away from it completely? I feel like I just want something nice and soothing but I need to make sure it’s not gonna mess me up even more. Any thoughts on this? Can I drink sugarcane juice during cold or should I just stick to warm drinks?
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Doctors' responses
It’s understandable to be cautious about what you consume when you’re down with a cold. Sugarcane juice is rich in nutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium, and contains antioxidants, which can theoretically support overall health. However, there’s no strong evidence to suggest that sugarcane juice specifically boosts immunity or speeds up recovery from a cold. Whether it’s beneficial or not could depend largely on how your body reacts to it. There’s a common belief that sugary drinks could potentially increase mucus production, though evidence on this isn’t conclusive. If you find that consuming sweet, cold beverages tends to irritate your throat or exacerbate mucus, you might want to moderate your intake. Having a small amount of sugarcane juice might be alright as part of a varied diet if it helps you feel more comfortable. It’s a good idea to consume it at room temperature if you’re worried about cold drinks making your throat feel worse. Keep in mind that hydration is key during a cold, so continue drinking plenty of water and warm liquids too, like herbal teas or broths, which can be soothing for the throat. Of course, if you have any conditions like diabetes where sugar intake needs careful management, it’s important to consider that aspect as well. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you’re experiencing high fever, shortness of breath or chest pain, seek medical advice to rule out more serious conditions. Otherwise, aim for a balance, listening to how your body responds to different foods and beverages during this time.
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