Top Ten Foods to Avoid for Mycoplasma Pneumonia
Generally speaking, there is no established concept of "ten foods to strictly avoid" for mycoplasma pneumonia. However, patients with mycoplasma pneumonia are advised to avoid spicy and irritating foods, greasy foods, raw and cold foods, overly salty foods, and seafood that may trigger allergic reactions. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. The detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Spicy and Irritating Foods
Spicy foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, mustard, and ginger can easily irritate the respiratory mucosa, worsening symptoms such as coughing and phlegm production. These foods are not conducive to the relief of mycoplasma pneumonia and may further irritate the already inflamed and sensitive respiratory tract, delaying recovery.
2. Greasy Foods
Greasy foods are difficult to digest. During mycoplasma pneumonia, a patient's physical functions, especially gastrointestinal function, may be compromised, resulting in weakened digestion. Consuming such foods increases the burden on the gastrointestinal system, potentially causing indigestion, bloating, and other issues, which are detrimental to recovery.
3. Raw and Cold Foods
Raw and cold foods such as ice cream, cold beverages, sashimi, and raw oysters can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing blood vessels to constrict, reducing the secretion of digestive fluids, and impairing gastrointestinal motility. These effects are not beneficial for the recovery from mycoplasma pneumonia and may indirectly worsen pneumonia symptoms.
4. Overly Salty Foods
Excessive salt intake may alter the osmotic pressure of the respiratory mucosa, leading to increased mucosal edema and exacerbating cough symptoms, which negatively affects the recovery from mycoplasma pneumonia.
5. Seafood That May Trigger Allergies
Seafood such as shrimp, crab, shellfish, and hairtail fish may trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate existing inflammation. For patients in the inflammatory phase of mycoplasma pneumonia, consuming these foods could intensify pulmonary inflammation, making symptoms such as coughing and fever more persistent and hindering the return to normal health.
The diet of patients with mycoplasma pneumonia should primarily consist of low-salt, low-fat, high-fiber foods, while ensuring balanced and diverse nutrient intake. When selecting foods, patients should consult their doctor or a nutritionist based on individual conditions to develop a suitable dietary plan.