Can I drink mung bean soup when I have a cold?

Mar 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 25-year-old female. Recently, I caught a cold unintentionally, experiencing some coughing and a runny nose, and my appetite has also been poor. I've heard that mung bean soup is good for the body, but I'm unsure whether it's suitable to consume during a cold.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi

It is generally acceptable to drink mung bean soup in moderation during a cold. As a traditional cooling beverage, mung bean soup has the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, and may help alleviate some discomforts caused by a cold, such as sore throat and dry mouth. In addition, mung bean soup can provide necessary hydration and nutrients, helping to promote metabolism and aid recovery.

However, mung bean soup is relatively cooling in nature, and excessive consumption may increase internal coldness, especially for individuals with a cold body constitution, who should be particularly cautious about the amount consumed. If a cold is accompanied by severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting, consuming mung bean soup may further burden the gastrointestinal system and hinder recovery. Therefore, it's best to determine whether mung bean soup is suitable based on your own body constitution and condition before consumption.

It is recommended to consume mung bean soup in moderation during a cold and pay attention to your body's reaction. If discomfort occurs after consumption, stop drinking it immediately. At the same time, it's important to rest adequately, ensure sufficient sleep, drink plenty of water, and consume more fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C to enhance immune function. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if additional symptoms appear, prompt medical attention is advised.