Tonsillitis is a bacterial or viral infection of the tonsils, the two oval-shaped pads at the back of the throat. Millions of people suffer from tonsillitis every year, leaving them with a sore throat, swollen tonsils and difficulty in swallowing. As part of the recovery process, many people choose to avoid certain foods and drinks, often including coffee. But is that really necessary?
Even if you have tonsillitis, there’s no scientific reason why you need to avoid coffee altogether. Rather, it’s important to take a slightly different approach to coffee and choose drinks which are not too hot or irritating for your throat. If you’ve got tonsillitis, coffee is just one of many things to bear in mind and is not necessarily a complete avoidance.
What is important to note are the benefits that coffee can offer. Coffee, when taken in moderation, is packed with minerals and vitamins. It also provides a burst of energy when needed and can prove to be particularly helpful during recovery from tonsillitis.
When it comes to making mindful coffee choices, there are a few pointers to bear in mind. Firstly, the temperature of the coffee is important and one should take care not to drink it when it is too hot. As a general rule of thumb, wait two to three minutes from when the coffee is poured until you take your first sip. Additionally, it may also be useful to drink decaffeinated alternatives if you are suffering from tonsillitis, due to a lack of caffeine interfering with sleep.
On the other side of the equation is the potential harm that coffee can cause. Caffeine is known to be a diuretic and can contribute to dehydration, which can be a particular problem if you have tonsillitis due to symptoms of dehydration such as a dry mouth, dizziness and headache. Therefore, if you have tonsillitis, it is perhaps wise to stick to decaffeinated coffee or limit your intake of caffeinated drinks.
In terms of type of coffee, it is always recommended to window-shop and compare different brands. Make sure to select one which features quality ingredients and is free of preservatives and artificial flavors. You may also need to pay close attention to the packaging, for example, what type of milk has been used. Opt for a lower-fat milk as this will reduce the amount of inflammation you experience in the throat.
Hot Drinks
Hot drinks are particularly beneficial for those suffering from tonsillitis and are in search of comfort. There are many hot drinks which those with tonsillitis should try to incorporate into their diet, such as hot tea or hot water with honey, to help reduce feelings of soreness and ease their throat. However, it is important to note that normal or caffeinated tea or coffee should always be consumed at room temperature or slightly warmer, as anything hotter can make your tonsillitis worse.
Foods to Avoid
Though it may seem hard to believe, many of your favourite foods should be avoided when suffering from tonsillitis. Foods that are especially high in sodium, fat and sugar should be your first priority to avoid. These can cause discomfort in the throat, inflammation and pain. Fried foods, for example, should most definitely be avoided as the high temperature of the oil can cause further damage to the throat.
Natural Remedies
Aside from your prescribed medication, it is also important to use natural remedies for tonsillitis whenever possible. There are several natural remedies that are recommended for treating tonsillitis, such as a spoonful of honey, lemon juice, or even chewable garlic. All of these can help in reducing the inflammation and allow the throat to heal faster. Furthermore, try to avoid cold and processed foods as they can aggravate your condition.
How Coffee Can Help
Coffee is not entirely off limits when suffering from tonsillitis and, depending on the individual, can actually prove to be beneficial. Many studies have shown that coffee can boost the immune system, as it is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
The only thing to bear in mind is to choose a milder blend of coffee, not too strong and not too hot. As mentioned earlier, opt for low-fat milk and avoid artificial flavors and additives. Finally, moderation is the key. Limit your intake of coffees throughout the day and if one is feeling ill, it is more beneficial to stick to decaffeinated beverages.
