Experts Named 4 Products That Hinder Recovery from Colds.

According to ТСН: When a classic winter cold strikes us, we often try to improve our condition with calorie-rich dishes or resort to familiar warming methods. However, nutrition specialists warn that some products we consider healthy can be an additional burden on the body fighting the illness.

1. Spicy Food: A Double-Edged Sword

There is a belief that hot pepper can help with a stuffy nose. And although capsaicin in pepper temporarily eases breathing, doctors warn that it can actually aggravate throat irritation and cough.

“It can intensify throat irritation and cough, as well as cause unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms,” warns dietitian Michael Edney.

Gastroenterologist Will Bulsiewicz adds that if the throat hurts, spicy food will only worsen the situation and may cause nausea.

2. Alcohol: A Triple Threat

Don't believe the myths that alcohol can kill germs. In reality, it harms your immunity.

Doctors consider alcohol to be a “triple threat”:

1. It suppresses immune cells.

2. It dehydrates the body (especially dangerous when fever is high).

3. It disrupts sleep, which is necessary for recovery.

“Alcohol makes your body fight on two fronts — against the virus and against the metabolic disruption caused by consuming alcohol,” explains Dr. Bulsiewicz.

3. Fatty and Fried Foods

Chips, french fries, and fatty burgers are the worst choices when sick. Such foods digest slowly, causing bloating and inflammation in the intestines.

Instead of spending energy on recovery, the body is forced to fight against heavy digestion.

4. Sugary Beverages

Sodas or sweet juices only slow down the recovery process.

Sugar significantly raises blood glucose levels, which negatively impacts the immune system. Moreover, these drinks do not provide necessary hydration.

So What to Eat?

Doctors recommend adhering to the principles of ‘simple and nourishing’. The best foods during a cold are:

• warm lean broths;

• herbal teas;

• oatmeal or rice;

• bananas and baked apples.

The main thing is to ensure maximum hydration (water or tea) and light food that does not distract the body from fighting the virus.

Experts also recommend consuming citrus fruits, as they promote faster recovery from colds. Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are not only tasty but also strengthen the immune system, helping to overcome the virus.