Dr. ANUVITHA KAMATH

When you have a common cold, you may feel tired, congested, and nauseous. You may also have a sore throat, cough, and headache. While drinking plenty of fluids can help you stay hydrated and ease your symptoms, not all drinks are beneficial for your recovery. Some drinks may worsen your condition or interfere with your immune system. Here are some of the worst drinks to consume if you have a common cold and why you should avoid them.

Caffeinated Drinks

Caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea, and soda, may seem tempting when you need a boost of energy or a soothing warm beverage. However, caffeine can have negative effects on your health when you are sick. Caffeine can dehydrate you, which can make your mucus thicker and harder to clear. Caffeine can also increase your blood pressure and heart rate, which can strain your cardiovascular system. Caffeine can also interfere with your sleep quality, which is essential for your recovery. Therefore, it is best to limit or avoid caffeinated drinks when you have a common cold.

Alcoholic Drinks

Alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine, and liquor, may seem like a good way to relax and unwind when you are feeling unwell. However, alcohol can also dehydrate you and impair your immune system. Alcohol can reduce the activity of your white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections. Alcohol can also increase inflammation in your body, which can worsen your symptoms and delay your healing. Alcohol can also interact with some medications, such as acetaminophen, which can cause liver damage. Therefore, it is best to avoid alcoholic drinks when you have a common cold.

Dairy Drinks

Dairy drinks, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, may seem like a good source of protein and calcium when you are sick. However, dairy can also trigger or worsen mucus production, which can make you feel more congested and cough more. Dairy can also cause digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, especially if you are lactose intolerant. Dairy can also increase the acidity of your stomach, which can irritate your throat and cause heartburn. Therefore, it is best to limit or avoid dairy drinks when you have a common cold.

Very Sweet or Acidic Drinks

Very sweet or acidic drinks, such as fruit juices, sports drinks, and soft drinks, may seem like a good way to replenish your fluids and electrolytes when you are sick. However, these drinks can also have negative effects on your health. Very sweet or acidic drinks can increase your blood sugar levels, which can impair your immune system and increase inflammation. They can also damage your tooth enamel, which can increase your risk of cavities and infections. They can also irritate your stomach and throat, which can cause nausea and pain. Therefore, it is best to limit or avoid very sweet or acidic drinks when you have a common cold.

What to Drink Instead

When you have a common cold, the best drinks to consume are those that can hydrate you, soothe your symptoms, and boost your immune system. Some of the best drinks to consume when you have a common cold are:

• Water: Water is the most basic and essential drink for your health. Water can help you stay hydrated, flush out toxins, and thin out your mucus. Water can also help regulate your body temperature and prevent fever. You can drink plain water or add some lemon, honey, or ginger for extra flavor and benefits.
• Herbal Tea: Herbal tea is a warm and comforting drink that can help you relax and ease your symptoms. Herbal tea can help you soothe your throat, reduce inflammation, and fight off infections. Some of the best herbs for colds are chamomile, peppermint, ginger, turmeric, and echinacea.
• Chicken Soup: Chicken soup is a classic remedy for colds that has been proven to be effective by science. Chicken soup can help you hydrate, nourish, and heal. Chicken soup can help you clear your nasal passages, reduce inflammation, and improve your immune system. Chicken soup can also provide you with protein, vitamins, and minerals that can support your recovery.

Conclusion

When you have a common cold, you may be tempted to drink whatever you crave or think can help you feel better. However, some drinks can actually worsen your condition or interfere with your healing. Some of the worst drinks to consume when you have a common cold are caffeinated drinks, alcoholic drinks, dairy drinks, and very sweet or acidic drinks. These drinks can dehydrate you, impair your immune system, increase your mucus production, and irritate your throat and stomach. Instead, you should drink water, herbal tea, and chicken soup, which can hydrate you, soothe your symptoms, and boost your immune system. By choosing the right drinks, you can help yourself recover faster and feel better.