Can you drink yogurt when you have a cold and fever?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, whether one can drink yogurt when having a cold or fever depends on the individual's specific condition and type of cold. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. During a cold or fever, it is important to drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate rest, and reduce physical activity. Diet should consist of light and easily digestible foods, such as millet porridge or soft noodles, while spicy, greasy, raw, or cold foods should be avoided.

Generally speaking, whether one can drink yogurt when having a cold and fever depends on the individual's specific physical condition and type of cold. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

 

If the illness is simply an ordinary wind-heat type cold with mild fever and no obvious gastrointestinal discomfort—such as nausea, bloating, or diarrhea—it is acceptable to consume a moderate amount of room-temperature yogurt. Yogurt contains probiotics that help regulate intestinal flora. Its refreshing taste helps hydrate the body and provides small amounts of nutrients, while also improving appetite and alleviating poor appetite during a cold.

However, if it is gastroenteric-type flu accompanied by severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, drinking yogurt is not recommended. This type of flu weakens gastrointestinal function, and the lactic acid in yogurt may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, worsening discomfort and potentially increasing the frequency of diarrhea, thus hindering recovery.

During a cold or fever, it is important to drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate rest, and reduce physical activity. Diet should consist mainly of light, easily digestible foods such as millet porridge or soft noodles, avoiding spicy, greasy, raw, or cold foods. Adjust clothing according to changes in body temperature, ensure indoor ventilation, maintain air circulation, and support faster recovery.