Can I eat spicy food during flu season?
Jan 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
Spicy foods such as chili peppers, spicy strips, and hot pot may irritate the throat. Influenza patients often experience symptoms such as sore throat and cough; consuming spicy foods may exacerbate these symptoms, causing further discomfort. Additionally, during influenza, patients' digestive functions may be affected, leading to symptoms such as reduced appetite and weakened digestion.
Generally, it is not recommended to consume spicy foods during the flu. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Spicy foods such as chili peppers, spicy strips, and hot pot may irritate the throat. Flu patients commonly experience symptoms like sore throat and cough, and consuming spicy foods might exacerbate these symptoms, causing further discomfort. Moreover, during the flu, patients' digestive functions may be affected, leading to symptoms like reduced appetite and weakened digestion. Spicy foods can irritate the stomach, potentially causing stomach pain and indigestion, thereby increasing the physical burden on the patient.
Flu patients should opt for bland, easily digestible foods such as millet porridge, vegetable porridge, and lean meat porridge. These foods are not only easy to digest and absorb, but they also supply essential nutrients and energy to support recovery. Additionally, patients should consume more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and oranges. Vitamins help enhance the body's immune system, enabling patients to better resist the influenza virus.
Flu patients should use medications like ribavirin tablets, acyclovir tablets, and Lianhua Qingwen capsules under a doctor's guidance to control the illness and promote recovery. At the same time, ensuring adequate sleep is essential, as it aids in physical recovery and boosts immunity.
