Sneezing, nasal congestion, sinus pain… No doubt about it! The cold has made you its victim. This scourge, which is one of the most common seasonal ailments every year, can turn your daily life into a nightmare.
During a cold episode, there are certain foods to avoid. And for good reason, they can cause inflammation and worsen the symptoms. So, here are the foods to avoid when you have a cold.
Pizza
First of all, pizza is a dish that contains a lot of gluten, which we have already discussed the effects of. Moreover, it is a very fatty meal, and the fats can disrupt your natural defenses.
Alcohol and caffeine
First of all, it is important to stay well-hydrated when you have a cold. This helps keep the nasal mucous membranes functioning properly to fight off viruses. However, alcohol and caffeine have a very dehydrating effect. In addition, alcohol has many harmful effects. It is incompatible with many medications, particularly antibiotics and painkillers (such as paracetamol). Highly inflammatory and high in sugar, it weakens white blood cells and slows down metabolism. The immune system and the liver, which are crucial for managing toxins, are no longer able to do their job properly.
Bread and foods rich in gluten
When you have a cold or any kind of respiratory infection, it’s best to limit your intake of gluten-rich foods. Our body needs to be fully available to digest it properly. If it’s already busy fighting an illness, it won’t be able to handle a surplus of gluten. This can lead to increased mucus production as a way to eliminate the excess gluten.
Cakes and sweets
You might think that candies and pastries bring you comfort, but be careful! Sugar is pro-inflammatory. By causing inflammation in the body, it weakens your white blood cells. As a result, your body will be less equipped to fight off infections.
