Randy Chandler
When suffering from a cough, it is important to understand which foods to eat and which to avoid to ensure faster healing and reduce the severity of symptoms. While there are many foods that can help soothe a cough, such as honey, ginger, peppermint, and chicken soup, there are also several foods that are believed to worsen a cough. One of the most commonly debated foods is cheese, along with other dairy products. This paragraph will explore whether cheese is, in fact, bad for a cough and provide insights into how it may affect the body during a cough or cold.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should cheese be avoided during a cough? | There is limited evidence that dairy products such as cheese should be avoided when suffering from a cough or cold. Some sources claim that dairy increases mucus production, while others claim there is no scientific evidence to support this. |
| Recommended foods and drinks | Honey, peppermint, ginger, garlic, chicken soup, broth, herbal tea, water |
| Foods and drinks to avoid | Caffeine, alcohol, deep-fried foods, starchy vegetables (corn, potatoes, squash), histamine-rich foods, citrus fruits |
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What You'll Learn
- Dairy products may increase mucus production, but there is limited evidence
- Cheese may cause a stuffy nose, but there is insufficient proof
- Avoid cold dairy products like ice cream as they can irritate the throat
- Consume cheese at room temperature to help open up a stuffed throat
- Opt for alternatives like honey, ginger, peppermint, and garlic
Dairy products may increase mucus production, but there is limited evidence
Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and ice cream, have long been thought to increase mucus production and make a cough worse. However, there is limited evidence to support this claim. While some people may find that dairy exacerbates their symptoms, others may not notice any difference.
The belief that dairy products increase mucus production may be due to the perception that dairy is high in fat and can cause congestion. However, scientific studies have failed to find a link between dairy consumption and increased mucus production. One study of 330 parents visiting a pediatric pulmonary office found that 59 percent believed that dairy causes mucus, demonstrating the widespread nature of this belief.
Despite the lack of scientific evidence, some people may still choose to avoid dairy products when they have a cough or cold. This is especially true for cold dairy products, such as ice cream, as they can irritate the throat and stomach. Additionally, those who are allergic to dairy should avoid it, as it may trigger an immune response.
Instead of dairy, people often opt for alternative remedies to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Herbal teas, such as peppermint and ginger tea, are popular choices as they have antibacterial and antiviral properties, as well as menthol in the case of peppermint, which can calm a tickly cough. Honey can also be added to tea to further soothe the throat. Chicken soup is another well-known remedy, providing vitamins, minerals, and protein, as well as helping to relieve sinus congestion.
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Cheese may cause a stuffy nose, but there is insufficient proof
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream are commonly believed to worsen a cough or cold. This is due to the idea that they increase mucus production, making your nose stuffy or runny and thus impairing your breathing. However, it is important to note that this claim has limited evidence and insufficient scientific support. While some people may find that dairy exacerbates their symptoms, there is no definitive proof that it will have the same effect on everyone.
The belief that dairy products should be avoided during a cough stems from the understanding that mucus plays a crucial role in the illness. Mucus is produced by the body to trap and expel foreign invaders, such as those causing the common cold or flu. However, excessive mucus can be uncomfortable and may worsen symptoms, leading to a stuffy or runny nose.
While cheese and other dairy products have been implicated in increased mucus production, studies have failed to find a significant link. For example, a study of 330 parents visiting a pediatric pulmonary office found that 59% believed that dairy causes mucus. However, scientific investigations since 1948, including interviews, surveys, nasal examinations, and double-blind studies, have not supported this belief.
Instead of solely focusing on avoiding cheese, it is more beneficial to adopt a comprehensive approach to managing a cough. This includes staying hydrated, as coughing can lead to fluid loss through mucus production. Warm fluids, such as herbal teas, vegetable broths, and soups, can help relieve congestion and soothe the throat. Additionally, consuming immunity-boosting foods, such as green vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli, can aid in speeding up recovery.
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Avoid cold dairy products like ice cream as they can irritate the throat
Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream are commonly believed to increase mucus production and make a cough worse. However, scientific evidence does not support this claim. While it is generally safe to consume dairy products when you have a cough, it is best to avoid cold dairy products like ice cream as they can irritate the throat.
Cold dairy products can irritate the throat and stomach, so it is advisable to avoid them when you have a cough. Instead, opt for dairy products at room temperature or warm, such as warm milk with turmeric, which can help open up a stuffed throat. Consuming dairy products that are cold can further cool down the throat, making it more difficult for your body to expel the irritating substance, which is usually mucus.
It is important to understand that coughing is your body's way of clearing irritants, fluids, mucus, or microbes from your throat and airways. The coughing reflex is initiated when the peripheral nerve receptors in your airways are triggered by an irritating substance. Your body then tries to expel this substance by forcing air out of your mouth. Therefore, consuming cold dairy products that can further irritate the throat may worsen your coughing.
To soothe a sore throat, you can try honey, which has important antibacterial and antiviral properties. Adding honey to a cup of hot water or herbal tea can help soothe an irritated throat. Spicy ginger is another effective remedy for a cough, as it has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, and can help relax the smooth muscles of the airways, making breathing easier.
While there is no need to completely avoid dairy when you have a cough, it is beneficial to be mindful of the temperature at which you consume these products. Opt for room temperature or warm dairy options, and avoid cold dairy products like ice cream to prevent further irritating your throat.
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Consume cheese at room temperature to help open up a stuffed throat
Consuming cheese at room temperature may help open up a stuffed throat. While there is a common belief that dairy products should be avoided when dealing with a cough, as they are thought to increase mucus production, there is limited evidence to support this claim. In fact, numerous studies have found that consuming dairy does not lead to increased mucus production. Therefore, if you are craving cheese to soothe your sore throat, it is generally safe to indulge, as long as it is consumed at room temperature.
It is important to note that individual reactions to certain foods may vary, so it is advisable to pay attention to the foods that trigger or worsen your cough. While cheese may be safe for most people, other dairy products, such as ice cream, are best avoided as they can irritate the throat and stomach. Additionally, if you are allergic to dairy, it is best to steer clear of cheese and other dairy products altogether.
To support your recovery from a cough, it is recommended to focus on consuming immunity-boosting foods. This includes foods rich in nutrients, such as green vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli. Chicken soup is also an excellent choice, as it provides vitamins, minerals, calories, and protein, while the warmth of the soup helps relieve sinus congestion. Broths, herbal teas, and warm fluids are also recommended, as they help keep the body hydrated and support the detoxification process.
In addition to consuming cheese at room temperature, you can try other remedies to help open up a stuffed throat. Honey has important antibacterial and antiviral properties that can soothe an irritated throat and chest. Peppermint and ginger are also effective in calming dry, tickly coughs and have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Regular exercise can also bolster your immune system, making you less likely to experience coughing fits in the future.
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Opt for alternatives like honey, ginger, peppermint, and garlic
While medications are sometimes necessary to treat a cough, natural alternatives such as honey, ginger, peppermint, and garlic can also help.
Honey is a well-known home remedy for a sore throat. A 2018 review found that honey may be more effective at relieving coughs than some over-the-counter medications. You can mix two teaspoons of honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon, or spread it on bread as a snack. However, honey should never be fed to infants due to the risk of botulism.
Ginger has been shown to have beneficial effects on coughs and respiratory infections. It helps relax airway muscles and eases breathing due to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Ginger tea is a great way to consume ginger, and it can also be taken in supplement form.
Peppermint contains menthol, which helps to open airways and can keep coughs at bay. Menthol can be found in rubs, cough drops, and peppermint tea.
Garlic is believed to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties that can help relieve the common cold. One trial found that participants taking garlic supplements had fewer occurrences of the common cold compared to those taking a placebo.
In addition to these alternatives, staying hydrated is important when dealing with a cough. Drinking warm fluids can help relieve throat dryness and thin out mucus, making it easier to cough and clear congestion.
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Frequently asked questions
There is limited evidence to suggest that dairy products like cheese should be avoided when you have a cough. However, some people believe that dairy can increase mucus production, making it harder to breathe.
Fried foods, caffeine, and alcohol can worsen cough symptoms and slow down recovery. These foods can dehydrate the body and stimulate the production of mucus. Starchy vegetables and histamine-rich foods can also trigger coughing.
Honey, peppermint, and ginger are all effective in soothing a cough. These foods have antibacterial and antiviral properties, and can help relax the airways. Chicken soup and bone broths are also good sources of nutrients and can help relieve congestion.
Staying hydrated is important when you have a cough. Drinking water and herbal teas can help support the body's natural detoxification process and keep you hydrated. Regular exercise can also bolster your immune system and help speed up recovery.
