can we drink sugarcane juice during cold and cough - #23372
I am feeling pretty crummy with this cold and cough, like I can't even sleep right. I've heard that sugarcane juice is really refreshing, plus I love the taste! But now I'm like, can we drink sugarcane juice during cold and cough? Last week, I went to a local vendor, and he was making it fresh. It was delicious, but then I started thinking... what if it's not good for me right now? I've got nasal congestion, a sore throat, and this annoying cough that's sticking around. My friend said sugarcane juice is known to be good for the immune system, but I'm just not sure about drinking it during a cold. Do you guys think the sweetness could make my throat worse or do something weird with my cough? Some docs say to avoid sugary stuff when sick, but this juice feels different, right? I’m really confused about all of this. I mean, is sugarcane juice a no-go during this cold and cough, or could it actually be soothing? I'd appreciate any thoughts from you guys!!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Drinking sugarcane juice when you have a cold and cough is generally not harmful, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Sugarcane juice itself is mostly water and natural sugars, along with some vitamins and minerals, which might seem like a refreshing choice. However, the sweetness could potentially have a mild drying effect on your throat, although it’s not likely to worsen your symptoms significantly. While sugar does not directly impact the immune system, consuming too much added sugar is generally advisable to avoid during illness, as it can lead to a temporary inflammatory response. That said, sugarcane juice, especially if consumed in moderation, is unlikely to contribute to this significantly. The benefits touted by sugarcane juice, like its antioxidant content, could be mildly beneficial, though they’re not specifically targeted for cold and cough relief. If you’re enjoying it as part of maintaining your hydration, it can be part of what you drink, but prioritising clear fluids like water, or herbal teas (which are soothing) alongside any prescribed remedies, would likely be more beneficial for symptom relief. Make sure your digestion is in check as sometimes too much juice can impact that negatively. Also, keep an eye on where you’re purchasing it from—a clean, hygienic source is essential to prevent any potential infection. While sugarcane juice feels natural, treating your cold should focus more on resting, staying hydrated and symptom-specific treatments, like lozenges or saline sprays for nasal congestion. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek medical advice to rule out any serious underlying condition.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.