What is the most effective dietary therapy method for cough and runny nose?

Generally speaking, due to individual differences, there is no single most effective dietary remedy for cough and runny nose. However, symptoms can usually be relieved through dietary therapies such as cabbage-heart and radish water, ginger brown sugar water, preserved egg and lean pork congee, pear juice with honey, and honey lemon water. Specific details are analyzed as follows:

1. Cabbage-Heart and Radish Water

Cut cabbage hearts and carrots into small pieces, add them to hot water and bring to a boil, then simmer for 15–20 minutes until the vegetables are soft. A small amount of salt may be added to taste. Cabbage hearts and carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals, which help boost immunity and alleviate throat discomfort.

2. Ginger Brown Sugar Water

Slice ginger thinly, place the slices into a cup of hot water along with an appropriate amount of brown sugar, and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to taste. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help relieve sore throat and reduce coughing. Brown sugar provides additional energy.

3. Preserved Egg and Lean Pork Congee

Cook white rice with water into a porridge, then add chopped preserved eggs, lean meat, ginger, and green onions. Continue cooking until all ingredients are thoroughly done, and season with salt to taste. This congee is easy to digest and provides sufficient nutrition. Preserved eggs are rich in protein and vitamins, while lean meat supplies protein to aid physical recovery.

4. Pear Juice with Honey

Extract juice from pears, then mix the pear juice with honey. The mixture can be combined with warm water to make a warm drink. Pear juice contains vitamin C and antioxidants, which help soothe sore throats and reduce coughing. Honey has calming and soothing effects on the throat.

5. Honey Lemon Water

Mix honey and lemon juice into warm water and stir well. Honey lemon water helps relieve throat discomfort—honey provides a soothing effect, while lemon supplies vitamin C to support immune function.

In addition, other remedies include garlic-cabbage soup, scallion soup, and radish-pig lung soup. It should be noted that dietary therapy only helps alleviate symptoms. If symptoms are severe or persist for a prolonged period, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for professional diagnosis and treatment.