According to Dr. Siddhartha Vashishtha, ENT doctor from Pristyn Care, “The most common cause of a sore throat is a viral infection”. He adds that the virus and the immune response to the virus can inflame the lining of the throat, thereby causing pain.
In addition to following good hygiene practices, staying hydrated is key in curing sore throat. Moreover, certain food items can fasten the process of healing. Try these doctor-prescribed foods when you are suffering from a sore throat to get relief immediately.
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What food items to eat with a sore throat?
Bananas
Banana is a type of non-acidic and soft fruit that can be gentle on the throat. Easy to swallow, this fruit is rich in vitamins, B6, potassium, and vitamin C. Hence, it is beneficial for people suffering from sore throat.
Chicken soup
Mild in anti-inflammatory properties, a bowl of hot chicken soup can relieve congestion. This works by limiting the viruses to come in contact with mucus membranes. Next time you have a stuffy nose, prepare nutrient-rich chicken soup by adding carrots, onions, celery, turnips, sweet potatoes and garlic. All these veggies are known for their nutritional benefits.
Pomegranate juice
Pomegranate juice is rich in nutrients that can help in keeping off infection as well as reducing inflammations.
Sage
Sage contains oxygen-handling enzymes, flavonoids and phenolic acid. This medicinal herb is rich in healing properties as well as flavorful hence, it is one of the best foods to eat when suffering from sore throat. Add this herb in tea or soups especially if you have a sore throat along with loss of appetite.
Turmeric
Turmeric has curcumin that is loaded with healing, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Use this in tea or in milk-based herbal blends.
Honey
Since ancient times, honey has been used as a medicinal remedy for various ailments. Substantial evidence portrays that manuka honey is very effective in fighting off various infections- bacterial and viral. Remember that you don’t overuse it as honey in larger doses can suppress the immune system.
Ginger
Well known for its analgesic, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, few slices of ginger can inhibit the growth of certain strains of bacteria. Sometimes, a postnasal drip can accompany a sore throat that can induce nausea. To get relief from this, you can take ginger.
Smoothies and yogurt
A good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats as well as probiotic bacteria. These beneficial germs can boost up the immune system and shield the body from fatal infections.
Scrambled eggs
A soft food, scrambled eggs made with egg whites is easily digestible. Scrambled eggs can reduce inflammation and pain caused due to sore throat.
Well-cooked vegetables
Essential nutrients for people suffering from sore throat become imperative to cure the underlying condition. Hence, consume well-cooked vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, potatoes, and other vegetables.
Green tea
Green tea is a harmless and natural substance that is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. People with a sore throat can feel better if they sip on green tea regularly.
What food items to avoid with a sore throat?
Due to soreness in the throat, it can be difficult and painful to swallow. Therefore, it becomes important that you avoid certain foods and drinks-
Foods that are crunchy or hard
Food items such as crackers, dry toast, nuts, or raw vegetables have more sharp edges that can hurt the throat when eaten. Therefore, avoid crunchy, hard foods when suffering from sore throat.
Citrus fruits and juices
Due to acidic properties, citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons can make a sore throat worse. Moreover, they can irritate the tender surface of the throat. Hence, limit eating citrus fruits or their juices.
Foods that are sour, pickled or salty
Sour, pickled or salty foods are prepared in vinegar or salt that make inflammation of a sore throat worse.
Tomato juice and sauces
The acidic properties of tomatoes make it a poor choice for people suffering from sore throats.
Spices that can irritate
Chilies, hot sauces, nutmegs, and other spicy foods can make the inflammation worse due to sore throat.
Alcoholic beverages
Drinks and mouthwashes that contain alcohol can cause a tingling sensation with a sore throat. Additionally, alcoholic beverages are dehydrating in nature.
Also Read: Foods To Eat And Avoid In Case Of Cough
What home remedies to try to cure a sore throat?
Here are home remedies that can help in easing out symptoms of a sore throat-
Stay hydrated
Drink lots of water or suck on lozenges to prevent dryness of the throat. This is because a dry throat can make the soreness worse.
Moisten the air
Use a humidifier to keep the air moist so that it can provide relief.
Gargle
Rinse the throat with saltwater that can reduce inflammation.
Take throat lozenges
Cough drops or medicated throat lozenges can provide relief from throat irritation.
Take over-the-counter painkillers
Consume over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen to reduce symptoms of sore throat. (Also Read: Know which antibiotics to take when suffering from sore throat.)
Conclusion
Sore throat is a common ailment that can be caused due to either bacterial or viral infection. Simple home remedies can cure infection immediately. However, if the soreness persists you can contact Pristyn Care or book an online consultation today.
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