As a popular beverage, coffee is known and enjoyed by many. According to Market Watch, it’s the second-most consumed beverage in the world after water. While coffee is a favorite among many people and can be consumed hot or cold, what if that beloved cup of joe is no longer a remedy? Can we still drink coffee during a cold or cough? Or should we be avoiding it entirely?
Medical professionals generally agree that avoiding coffee, especially caffeinated coffee, is the best option for someone dealing with the common cold. According to a WebMD article, “Caffeine can interfere with sleep, which is essential for a healthy immune system.” Furthermore, drinking coffee may temporarily improve your cold symptoms, but these effects will wear off quickly and don’t address the root of the issue.
Though caffeine is known to be a stimulant, health experts also say that it can also be dehydrating, causing your sinuses to dry out. Since colds and coughs are inflammatory illnesses, an adequate amount of liquid could be essential to combat germ-fighting cells. Coffee, therefore, isn’t the most ideal source of hydration.
Karen Ansel, a certified nutritionist and author of “Healing Superfoods for Anti-Aging,” adds more insight. Ansel suggests that a daily cup of coffee isn’t harmful, but coffee consumption should be avoided during a cold or cough as it “causes dehydration and can also lead to a larger feeling of malaise that comes with a cold.” Furthermore, Ansel suggests avoiding caffeinated tea during a cold or cough as well.
A different perspective from the experts is from registered dietitian and author of “The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox.” Katie Wells holds a different opinion on the benefits of coffee during a cold. Wells notes that while some people may want to avoid caffeine during a cold or cough, it’s also possible to take medicinal benefits from caffeinated beverages, claiming that its “antioxidant properties can help with inflammation.” Wells maintains that it’s important to take into consideration how much caffeine someone’s body can handle, and how the person typically responds to caffeine in general when determining if coffee or other caffeinated beverages are beneficial during a cold.
Despite the range of opinions from the experts, the common consensus from both sides is that caffeine in general should be limited during a cold or cough. However, if someone can’t resist their daily cup of joe, there’s no definitive evidence to indicate whether it will harm or help. Therefore, if someone does choose to drink coffee, they should be aware of their individual body’s response and decide how to proceed.
NON-CAFFEINATED BEVERAGES
If you are seeking some kind of warm or hot drink to help with a cold or cough, water is always an ideal option. Hydration is an important factor in recovering from cold and cough. Another flavorful option is to make your own herbal tea. Herbal teas, such as ginger, honey, eucalyptus, elderberry and mint, have additional properties that can be beneficial for a cold or coughing. Demonstrated by an article published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), these herbs are known for their potential immunomodulatory and antiviral effects.
In an article from the University of Washington School of Medicine, herbal teas can act as a decongestant due to the presence of volatile oil found in some herbs like eucalyptus or mint. There are also a few studies on ginseng, which suggest its potential anti-inflammatory effects. It is not widely recommended to drink ginseng tea, however, as there could be potential side effects.
Chamomile tea is generally accepted as being a good choice of herbal tea while dealing with a cold or cough. To make a cup of chamomile tea, steep one teaspoon of dried chamomile in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes and add your favorite honey to sweeten it. According to the NIH article, chamomile is known for its potential sedative and expectorant properties.
DIET MODIFICATIONS
In addition to drink modifications, dietary modifications may also be necessary. Eating certain meals are known to help clear up congestion and support rapid healing. According to the NIH article, zinc and vitamin C are both good for strengthening the immune system, and foods such as pineapple, oranges, red bell peppers, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, and kale can fortify your system against viral infections.
Moreover, chili pepper, black pepper, parsley, and garlic may be helpful in clearing the nasal passages by aiding bronchial secretions. Whether you crave chicken or vegetable soup, the warmth of the hot beverage may soothe the throat while the dispersed liquid may help keep the body hydrated.
Probiotics, such as yogurts, are known to help improve cold and cough related symptoms. When shopping for yogurt, one way to know if it contains live probiotics is if the packaging states “contains live active cultures.” Probiotics contain healthy bacteria which may boost the immune system and help fight off infections.
SLEEP AND EXERCISE
Sleep and exercise are two important components to consider when recuperating from any illness. According to the University of Washington School of Medicine, sleeping is the best form of self-care when one is sick, and can also play a role in prevention.
Exercising can also be beneficial for any cold or cough. When exercising, your body temperature rises which may aid in breaking down fever and fight off any virus quicker. When choosing to exercise, it’s important to avoid overly vigorous activities as it may overexert the body.
If someone has a runny nose and a sore throat, they may want to observe the type and intensity of exercise they’re engaging in. While walking may seem like an ideal choice, it may not be the best. Instead, gentle stretching, such as yoga and Pilates, may be more appropriate.
OTC MEDICATIONS
If the symptoms of a cold or cough are more severe, stretching, herbal teas, and probiotics may not be enough. In that case, a person will likely need to visit their doctor and decide whether to take over the counter (OTC) medications.
Common OTC medications include decongestants, cough syrups, expectorants, and pain relievers for muscular aches and pains. It is important to note, however, that pain relievers such as ibuprofen may be contraindicated if someone has existing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
OTC medications, while helpful in relieving symptoms, only offer short-term relief and do not address the root of the issue. It is widely suggested to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any medications and to take the exact recommended dosage.
NATURAL REMEDIES
If someone is looking for additional ways to help with a cold or cough, there are many natural remedies available. One of the most popular is using a neti-pot, a device filled with a warm saltwater solution. Once plugged into the nostril, it can help flush out the passed-up mucus. Additionally, performing warm compresses or taking an extended, warm bath may also be beneficial as they can help with sore throat, chest stuffiness, and sinus pressure.
Rubbing vapor rubs over the chest or inhaling steam vaporized by hot water are also two methods often used to relieve common cold symptoms. Furthermore, a wet towel soaked with essential oils over the forehead may help in the reduction of a fever. Lastly, one of the easiest options is gargling warm salt water, as it can help soothe a sore throat.
