Can I eat watermelon if I have a sore throat?
A sore throat is usually mild and generally allows for consumption of watermelon. However, if the condition is severe, eating watermelon is typically not recommended. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to clarify the situation and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment in order to avoid delaying the illness.
If the sore throat is caused by a mild upper respiratory tract infection and there are no other severe symptoms, moderate consumption of watermelon is generally safe. Watermelon contains abundant water and vitamin C, which can help replenish body fluids and relieve throat dryness and pain. Moreover, the antioxidants in watermelon also help boost immunity and promote recovery.
However, if the sore throat is caused by serious throat infections such as purulent or viral pharyngitis, the throat may be accompanied by significant swelling, pain, and difficulty swallowing. In such cases, eating watermelon might exacerbate throat irritation and discomfort, as the sweetness and acidity of watermelon could irritate the mucous membranes of the throat, hindering recovery.
In daily life, one should maintain a bland diet and avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as garlic, hot pot, and mustard. Additionally, adequate rest is important and overexertion should be avoided to prevent negative impacts on health.