Randy Chandler
When you're feeling under the weather, the last thing on your mind is often food. But what you eat and drink when you have a cold can affect how you feel and how long you're sick. One food group that often gets ruled out is dairy, with many people believing that cheese, milk, and ice cream can increase mucus production and worsen cold symptoms. However, scientific studies have found that dairy does not make you produce more mucus, and while it might be harder to digest, it can provide important nutrients and calories when you're sick. So, is cheese bad during a cold? The answer may be more complex than a simple yes or no.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Does cheese cause an increase in mucus production? | No, this is a common misconception. Since 1948, numerous studies have tested whether milk consumption leads to increased mucus production, and numerous studies have found that it doesn’t. |
| Should cheese be consumed during a cold? | It may be harder to digest, so it is recommended to avoid it until you feel better. |
| Are there any other foods or drinks to avoid during a cold? | Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics and can lead to dehydration, which is dangerous when sick, especially if vomiting or diarrhea is present. |
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What You'll Learn
Dairy products may be harder to digest
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and ice cream, do not cause your body to produce more mucus when you have a cold. This is a common misconception, and numerous studies since 1948 have found no link between milk consumption and increased mucus production. In one study, researchers deliberately infected volunteers with the common cold virus and found that drinking milk did not impact the quantity of their nasal secretions. Another study found that people who believed in the link between milk and mucus were more likely to report symptoms of congestion, but this was not reflected in the weight of their nasal secretions.
However, some people find that dairy products can be harder to digest when they are sick. Dr. Besser recommends steering clear of dairy until you feel better. Dairy products may also interfere with certain medications. For example, if you are taking antibiotics, it is recommended that you wait at least 30 minutes after taking your medication before consuming any dairy products. This will ensure that the antibiotic has time to be absorbed by your body without interference from the calcium in dairy products.
While dairy products may not directly worsen your cold symptoms, it is important to listen to your body and make choices that align with your individual needs and preferences. If you find that dairy products make you feel worse when you have a cold, it is perfectly fine to avoid them until you feel better. However, if you tolerate dairy well and enjoy its nutritional benefits, there is no need to restrict your intake solely based on the belief that it will increase mucus production.
It is worth noting that frozen dairy products, such as ice cream, can soothe a sore throat and provide calories when you might otherwise struggle to eat. Ultimately, the decision to consume dairy products during a cold depends on your personal preferences and how your body responds to dairy. If you have specific concerns or questions, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.
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Dairy may increase mucus production
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and ice cream, are often believed to worsen cold symptoms by increasing mucus production. However, scientific studies have found no evidence to support this claim.
In one study, researchers infected volunteers with the common cold virus and asked them to drink milk and record any congestion symptoms. They found that those who believed in the link between milk and mucus were more likely to report symptoms, but there was no increase in nasal secretions. Another study by researchers in South Australia found that people who drank cow's milk reported similar sensations to those who drank soya milk, such as thicker saliva and a coating in the throat.
Despite these findings, some people may still find dairy products harder to digest when they are sick. Additionally, while milk does not cause the body to produce more mucus, it can make phlegm thicker and more irritating to the throat. Singers and parents of asthmatic children often avoid dairy to prevent mucus production, even though it is not scientifically proven.
Overall, while dairy may not directly increase mucus production, individual preferences and comfort levels may vary when it comes to consuming dairy during a cold. It is always a good idea to listen to your body and choose foods that are easy to digest and nourishing when you are sick.
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Cheese may be okay in small amounts
There is a common misconception that dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream cause the body to produce more mucus, which leads people to advise against consuming cheese when one has a cold. However, this claim has been debunked by numerous studies since 1948, which have found no link between milk consumption and increased mucus production. One study deliberately infected volunteers with the common cold virus and found that drinking milk did not impact the quantity of nasal secretions. Another study had 125 people drink either cow's milk or soy milk and found that while some cow's milk drinkers reported sensations of thicker saliva and a coating in their throat, people who drank the placebo soy milk reported the same sensations.
Despite the evidence that dairy does not increase mucus production, some people still believe that it does, and these beliefs can impact their perception of symptoms. In one study, people who believed in the link between milk and mucus reported more cough and congestion symptoms, even though they did not produce more mucus. Additionally, while milk does not cause the body to produce more mucus, it may make existing phlegm thicker and more irritating to the throat.
Therefore, while there is no scientific basis to the claim that dairy products increase mucus production, some people may still choose to avoid cheese and other dairy products when they have a cold due to personal preferences or sensitivities. However, small amounts of cheese may be okay to consume during a cold, especially considering that eating something, even when one doesn't feel like it, is important when sick to boost the immune system.
It is worth noting that some experts advise against consuming dairy products when sick because they may be harder to digest, so it is recommended to listen to your body and adjust your diet accordingly. Additionally, while cheese may be okay in small amounts, other foods and beverages, such as caffeine and alcohol, should be avoided as they can lead to dehydration, which is dangerous when sick, especially if vomiting or diarrhea is present.
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Dairy can soothe a sore throat
Dairy products are often ruled out when treating a cold or sore throat. Many people believe that dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and ice cream, cause the body to produce more mucus, which can worsen congestion and cold symptoms. However, there is limited evidence supporting this claim, and studies have found no difference in mucus production between those who consume dairy and those who do not when sick.
Despite the lack of scientific evidence, some individuals may still experience an increase in respiratory mucus when consuming dairy, especially those with lactose intolerance. For these individuals, dairy alternatives may be a better option.
Dairy products can provide some benefits when dealing with a sore throat. Soft dairy products like creamy yogurt, warm milk, or cold ice cream can help soothe a sore throat. The warmth of liquids like tea or milk can also aid in easing pain and inflammation. Additionally, milk provides energy in the form of calories and essential nutrients like vitamin D and calcium.
To enhance the soothing effects of warm milk, consider adding a small amount of ground turmeric and a sweetener like honey. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, may possess anti-inflammatory properties and aid in reducing the duration of your cold. Honey can coat the throat, providing additional relief.
While dairy may not be the primary culprit in mucus production, it is important to note that it may be harder to digest, so it is best to consume it in moderation until you feel better.
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Dairy may be good for nutrition
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and ice cream, are often believed to worsen the symptoms of a cold. Many people avoid consuming dairy when they are sick due to the idea that it increases mucus production. However, scientific studies have found no evidence to support this claim. In fact, frozen dairy products can even soothe a sore throat and provide necessary calories when you might otherwise struggle to eat.
While dairy may not directly worsen your cold, it could be harder to digest, so you may want to limit your consumption until you feel better. Additionally, if you are taking antibiotics, it is recommended to wait at least 30 minutes after taking your medication before consuming dairy, as dairy can reduce the effectiveness of certain antibiotics.
Yogurt, in particular, is often recommended for its ability to restore intestinal bacteria flora, especially after a round of antibiotics. This makes yogurt a potentially beneficial food to include in your diet when recovering from an illness.
Overall, while there is no need to completely avoid dairy when you have a cold, it is important to prioritize nourishing your body and staying hydrated. This means that if dairy is unappealing to you when you are sick, there are plenty of other foods that can provide the nutrition you need to support your immune system.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.
- Chicken soup, yogurt, and fruit are all recommended by experts as nutritious options when you are sick.
- Garlic may have properties that fight the common cold and could be worth incorporating into your diet.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no scientific evidence that cheese or any other dairy product causes the body to produce more mucus. However, some people find dairy products harder to digest when they are sick, so they may be best avoided until you feel better.
Many people believe that dairy products like cheese, milk, and ice cream cause the body to produce more mucus, which can worsen cold symptoms. However, this belief has been debunked by scientific studies.
Cheese can provide calories and nutrients that can help fuel your body's recovery during a cold. It can also be soothing to eat if your throat is sore.
Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided when you have a cold, as they can lead to dehydration. It is important to stay hydrated and nourish your body with plenty of liquids and nutritious foods to support your recovery.
