FOODS TO EAT AND AVOID IN CASE OF COUGH
FOODS TO EAT AND AVOID IN CASE OF COUGH
A cough may seem simple, but it’s actually the body’s built-in defense system. It clears out mucus, phlegm, dust, and even germs that try to settle in the airways. Although it may feel uncomfortable at times, coughing is a natural way to protect your lungs and keep your breathing clear.
But here’s the thing: what if your cough doesn’t go away with medicine alone? Making the right food choices can support recovery, while choosing the wrong ones may slow it down.
For example, does eating oily food exacerbate a cough? Often, yes, it can increase irritation. Similarly, spicy or fried foods might trigger more coughing, while soothing options like honey, warm soups, or ginger tea can help calm the throat. That’s why knowing the right foods for a cough and the foods to avoid can be a natural way to find relief.
Continue reading to discover which foods can help alleviate a cough and which ones may heighten it.
But before we get to it, do you know that some over-the-counter cough suppressants, like Mucinex® Multi-ActionTM Wet & Dry Cough Liquid, work by loosening mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear from your lungs. If you’re feeling under the weather and need help with fighting cold and flu symptoms, check out Mucinex® liquid and caplet products.
Foods to eat when coughing
Here are some foods to eat to help soothe a cough by providing hydration, thinning mucus, and supporting the immune system.
1. Coconut water
If you’re tired of plain water, coconut water is a great alternative. It’s light, refreshing, and helps keep you hydrated, which is especially important when you have a cold or cough, as it replaces lost fluids and supplies vital electrolytes like potassium and sodium to support your body's functions. Additionally, it acts as a natural cleanser, flushing out toxins and thinning mucus, making your chest feel lighter.
2. Honey with warm water
You’ve probably heard your grandmother say honey is the best remedy for a cough, and she’s right. A spoonful of honey in warm water or tea can help lubricate the airways, and its steam can help reduce sinus pressure and congestion. It also coats your throat, calms the tickling sensation, and reduces irritation with several antimicrobial benefits.
3. Ginger tea
Ginger has been used for centuries as a healing root. If you’re battling a nagging cough, ginger tea can feel like a warm hug for your throat. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties reduce irritation in the throat and respiratory tract. It also helps clear phlegm and ease that constant urge to cough.
4. Bananas
Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and natural sugars that increase energy and boost immunity. Their soft texture is gentle on the throat, making them easy to swallow when coughing.
Additionally, they provide quick nourishment that doesn't upset the stomach. Enjoy ripe bananas as a snack or blend them into smoothies with warm milk alternatives. Mash them for easier digestion during severe coughing. This fruit offers comfort and energy for recovery.
5. Warm soups and broths
A warm bowl of soup offers more than comfort; it’s packed with nutrients that support healing. Chicken broth supplies protein and minerals, while vegetable soup provides vitamins and antioxidants. Together, they ease inflammation, loosening thick mucus and relieving congestion through hydration and the soothing effect of steam, calming throat irritation.
For the best results, opt for clear broths or light vegetable soups instead of creamy ones. Sip them slowly while warm so the steam helps clear congestion and soothes your throat. Drinking it a couple of times a day also helps keep you hydrated and energized.
6. Steamed vegetables
Steamed vegetables, such as carrots, spinach, and broccoli, are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. Their warmth and steam also soothe throat discomfort and loosen mucus. For best results, steam them until tender, season with mild herbs, and enjoy in soups, purees, or as a light side dish to aid healing.
Similarly, steam from a pot of boiling water also brings comfort while coughing by moisturizing the airways, breaking up mucus, and soothing a scratchy throat. Together, these natural sources of steam help calm irritation and make breathing easier during recovery.
Foods to avoid when coughing
Here are the foods to avoid during a cough to prevent throat irritation, increased mucus production, dehydration, or suppressing the immune system.
1. Fried and oily foods
Fried and oily foods, such as fries, pakoras, or burgers, may be tempting but can exacerbate coughing. Their high fat content increases mucus production and triggers inflammation. The heaviness and greasiness also irritate the throat, making symptoms more uncomfortable and slowing recovery.
Of course, not everyone reacts the same way to oily foods, but if you notice your cough worsening after eating them, it’s wise to cut back. Choosing lighter, home-cooked meals helps reduce irritation and gives your throat and body the best chance to heal more quickly.
2. Spicy foods
Spicy food can worsen coughing because its active compound, capsaicin, irritates and inflames the respiratory tract and throat, triggering a cough reflex as a protective response to clear the irritant. Dishes like curries or those with chili peppers can easily irritate a sensitive throat.
Moreover, the heat from spices can cause more coughing, create a burning feeling, and worsen inflammation when your throat is already sore. Since spicy foods can worsen throat discomfort when you're sick, it's best to avoid them during recovery.
3. Dairy products
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt don’t actually boost mucus production, but the texture of milk can create a coating in the throat or make saliva feel thicker. This sensation might be perceived as extra mucus, which can worsen congestion and make coughing more uncomfortable. For some people, it also irritates the throat and increases the urge to cough.
If you’re prone to mucus buildup during illness, it’s often better to limit dairy until you recover. Choosing lighter alternatives can keep your throat clear, ease discomfort, and support faster healing.
4. Cold dessert and ice cream
Cold desserts, such as ice cream, initially feel soothing, but the cold can irritate your throat and cause more coughing. For some people, the cold temperature can also tighten the airways, making it harder to breathe.
Additionally, the creamy texture of ice cream can make mucus feel thicker, increasing congestion and discomfort. That’s why it’s better to avoid frozen treats during a cough and opt for warm, soothing foods and drinks instead.
5. Chocolates and sweets
Chocolate and sweets can aggravate a cough because their high sugar levels can trigger inflammation and weaken the immune system, making it more difficult to fight off infections.
Although chocolate may feel comforting, it’s not the best choice during cold and tough seasons. Excess sugar weakens your immune system and slows down recovery.
Additionally, sweets can leave your throat dry and irritated, making coughs feel sharper and more frequent. It’s better to swap sugary treats for soothing options, such as honey or warm fruit-based snacks, until your throat heals.
6. Certain acidic fruits
Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, vinegars, and tomatoes, can worsen a cough by irritating an already inflamed throat and voice box, triggering the body’s defense mechanism to clear the airway.
Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, but their acidity can irritate a sore throat and worsen coughing. Instead of soothing, the sharpness can leave your throat feeling more irritated.
A better choice is gentler fruits like bananas, melons, or pears, which offer nutrients without the acidic bite. These softer options help keep your throat calm and support a more comfortable recovery.
FAQs
Is it okay to drink coffee when you have a cough?
Coffee contains caffeine, which can dehydrate your body and throat, potentially making a cough worse. While a small amount may not cause harm, it’s better to opt for warm herbal teas or honey water for soothing relief.
What drinks are good for cough relief?
Warm teas, honey water, and clear broths, and warm lemon water can hydrate the throat, reduce irritation, and soothe persistent coughing.
How does diet affect the severity of a cough?
A balanced diet with soothing foods supports the immune system, reduces mucus buildup, and promotes healing, while consuming the wrong foods may worsen coughing.