Kamil Perry
When it comes to being sick, eating the right foods can help support your immune system and relieve certain symptoms. While no food alone is likely to cure sickness, a bland diet of bread, cooked vegetables, eggs, and soup may be ideal for a short period when you are nauseous or have diarrhea and vomiting. However, it is important to know what to avoid, such as full-fat dairy and spicy foods, which can upset your stomach. Aged cheeses that contain tyramine may increase your blood pressure, triggering migraines. In contrast, foods that reduce inflammation, such as fatty fish and green leafy vegetables, can alleviate cold and flu-related symptoms like body aches.
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What You'll Learn
Aged cheeses may increase blood pressure and trigger migraines
While some people may turn to cheese as a source of comfort when they are unwell, it is important to be aware of the potential negative impacts of consuming cheese when sick. Aged cheeses, in particular, may have adverse effects on your health if consumed during illness.
Firstly, aged cheeses contain tyramine, a compound that can increase blood pressure. High blood pressure can be dangerous, especially for those already at risk of cardiovascular disease. The increased blood pressure caused by tyramine may also trigger migraines in susceptible individuals. If you are prone to migraines, it is advisable to avoid aged cheeses as a precautionary measure.
Additionally, dairy products, in general, have been associated with increased mucus production. This effect may be undesirable when you are already dealing with congestion and a stuffy nose due to a cold or flu. The last thing you want is to exacerbate your symptoms and make it even harder to breathe or sleep comfortably.
Furthermore, cheese is not easily digestible, especially when your body is already working hard to fight off an illness. Full-fat dairy products, in particular, can upset your stomach and cause digestive issues. This is the last thing you need when sick, as an upset stomach can make it difficult to keep down any food or liquids, hindering your recovery.
While cheese may be a good source of protein and calcium, it is not the best choice when you are sick. Opting for other protein sources such as lean meats, tofu, or fatty fish may be a wiser decision. These alternatives can provide your body with the fuel it needs to fight off infection without the potential negative side effects associated with cheese consumption during illness.
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Cheese can be good with soup, a go-to for sickness
When you're feeling under the weather, it's important to nourish your body with the right foods to support your immune system and speed up your recovery. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as different illnesses may require different dietary approaches, there are some general guidelines to consider. One popular go-to for sickness is a comforting bowl of soup. Soup is an excellent choice when you're sick for several reasons. Firstly, it is a hydrating option, providing your body with the fluids it needs, especially if you're dealing with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, or a fever.
Chicken soup, in particular, has been a long-standing favourite for sickness. It offers a good source of vitamins, minerals, calories, and protein, which are essential for your body's recovery. The chicken contains an amino acid called cysteine, which has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The warmth of the soup can also help soothe and relieve sinus congestion, making it easier to breathe.
Now, let's talk about cheese. While cheese may not be the first food that comes to mind when thinking about sickness, it can actually be a tasty addition to your soup or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side. Cheese provides calories, protein, and some essential vitamins and minerals. However, it's important to note that aged cheeses that contain tyramine should be avoided if you're prone to migraines, as they can increase blood pressure.
When pairing cheese with your soup, consider a classic combination like grilled cheese with tomato soup. The creaminess of the cheese can complement the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a satisfying and flavourful meal. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some grated cheese on top of your soup for added texture and flavour. Just remember to opt for milder varieties and avoid aged cheeses with high tyramine content if you're concerned about migraines.
In summary, cheese can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your soup when you're sick, providing some extra calories, protein, and vitamins. However, as with all foods, moderation is key, and it's important to listen to your body and adjust your diet according to your specific symptoms and preferences.
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Cheese on toast is a popular comfort food when unwell
There are many beliefs about the types of food that are good for sickness, and some people consider cheese on toast a popular comfort food when unwell. While there are some benefits to eating cheese when sick, there are also some drawbacks. For example, cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential nutrients for maintaining health and supporting recovery. However, aged cheeses that contain tyramine may increase blood pressure and trigger migraines.
Cheese on toast can be a good option for people who are sick because it combines the benefits of cheese with those of bread. Bread is part of a bland diet that can help treat diarrhoea and vomiting. Refined white bread, in particular, is easy on the stomach and can be soothing for an upset digestive system.
Additionally, toast can be a convenient way to consume cheese, especially for those who may have a reduced appetite when they are unwell. The crispiness of toasted bread can also add a textural element to the soft and creamy cheese, making it more appealing and palatable for those who may have a diminished sense of taste or smell due to congestion.
However, it is important to note that dairy products, including cheese, have been associated with increased mucus or phlegm production. While this has not been conclusively proven, it is a common belief that dairy products can worsen congestion symptoms. Therefore, while cheese on toast can be a comforting and nourishing option when unwell, it may not be the best choice for those specifically dealing with a stuffy nose or chest congestion.
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Cheese is a dairy product, which some say increases mucus
Cheese is a dairy product, and dairy has long been associated with increased mucus production. However, this is not necessarily a simple cause-and-effect relationship. Firstly, it is important to note that some amount of mucus is crucial for your health. Mucus lines and protects your tissues, moisturizes them, and even traps unwanted particles like dust, pollen, and mold. The average body produces about one liter of mucus per day. However, excess mucus can be an issue, and certain foods may contribute to this.
Dairy products, including cheese, have been linked to increased mucus production, particularly in the respiratory tract. This association is particularly evident in people with asthma and those with a histamine sensitivity or intolerance. In these individuals, consuming high-histamine foods can lead to increased phlegm production.
Additionally, the type of milk may play a role. Excessive consumption of A1 milk has been linked to increased mucus secretion in the human respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. This is due to the presence of beta-casomorphin-7 (beta-CM-7), which is derived from the breakdown of A1 milk. Beta-CM-7 stimulates mucus production from MUC5AC glands, leading to potential mucus overproduction in the respiratory tract.
If you notice that consuming cheese or other dairy products results in increased mucus production, it may be advisable to opt for alternative beverages or milk substitutes that are less thick and do not coat your throat as much. Keeping a food diary can help identify trigger foods, and it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional to determine if any underlying conditions are contributing to excess mucus production.
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Cheese is not a cure, but supports the immune system
While cheese is not a cure for sickness, it can be part of a diet that supports your immune system. Cheese is a dairy product, and some people believe that consuming dairy when sick can be harmful as it may increase mucus production. However, certain types of cheese can be beneficial when you're unwell. For example, blue cheese is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, offering antioxidant protection and supporting thyroid function.
It is important to note that some cheeses should be avoided when sick, as they may worsen symptoms. Aged cheeses contain tyramine, which can increase blood pressure and trigger migraines. Additionally, full-fat dairy products can upset your stomach, so opting for low-fat or fat-free cheese may be a better choice when sick.
When it comes to food choices during sickness, it's essential to consider your specific symptoms. A bland diet is often recommended for nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. This can include foods like refined white bread, crackers, pasta, and cooked vegetables. Cheese can be a part of this diet in moderate amounts, providing some nutritional benefits without aggravating symptoms.
While cheese can be a part of a sick diet, it's important to prioritize a well-rounded approach. Include various other foods that support the immune system, such as leafy green vegetables, fatty fish, and lean meats. Staying hydrated is also crucial, so remember to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, broth, or soup.
In summary, while cheese may not be a cure for sickness, it can be a part of a diet that supports your immune system and aids in your recovery. Just remember to choose the right types of cheese and include a variety of other nutritious foods to ensure a well-rounded approach to managing your illness.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese can be good to eat when you're sick, but it depends on the type of cheese and your symptoms. Aged cheeses that contain tyramine may increase your blood pressure and trigger migraines. However, some cheeses, like blue cheese, can be a good source of vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Foods that are easy on the stomach and provide necessary nutrients are generally good to eat when you're sick. This includes foods like chicken soup, broths, tea, eggs, tofu, salmon, beans, and green leafy vegetables.
Yes, it's best to avoid full-fat dairy, spicy foods, processed foods, and foods with high levels of sugar alcohols like sorbitol, as these can upset your stomach, increase inflammation, or worsen diarrhea. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided as they can dehydrate you and worsen body aches.
Cheese can provide some necessary nutrients, such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it's important to consider the type of cheese and its potential impact on your specific symptoms.
