Is it necessary to avoid seafood when suffering from tonsillitis?

Jul 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, patients with tonsillitis should avoid eating seafood. During an episode of tonsillitis, the diet should be light and easy to digest. It is advisable to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, drink plenty of water, and keep the throat moist. At the same time, consumption of spicy, greasy, and irritating foods should be avoided. Developing good eating habits can help the body recover health more quickly.

Generally speaking, patients with tonsillitis should avoid eating seafood. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Most seafood is considered to be a "trigger food" and many types of seafood are irritating. Seafood such as shrimp, crab, and shellfish contains relatively high levels of histamine, a substance that may irritate the tonsillar mucosa, worsen local congestion and swelling, and make symptoms such as sore throat and difficulty swallowing more severe. Additionally, some seafood dishes include spicy seasonings such as chili peppers, ginger, and others during cooking, which can further irritate the inflamed tonsils and hinder the resolution of inflammation.

When suffering from tonsillitis, the body's immune system is active and the digestive system may be somewhat affected. Seafood is rich in protein, and excessive consumption may increase the digestive burden on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to indigestion, which could interfere with recovery. Moreover, some individuals are allergic to seafood. During an episode of tonsillitis, exposure to allergens may trigger more severe allergic reactions that could interfere with the recovery from inflammation.

Diet should be light and easily digestible during tonsillitis. It is advisable to eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, drink plenty of water, and keep the throat moist. At the same time, spicy, greasy, and irritating foods should be avoided. Developing good eating habits can help the body recover more quickly.

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