Is eating vinegar-heavy food beneficial for the recovery from bronchitis?

Mar 31, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I really like eating vinegar. I was wondering if consuming a lot of vinegar would be beneficial for the recovery from bronchitis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi

Consuming excessive vinegar does not provide direct benefits for the recovery from bronchitis.

Although vinegar offers certain health benefits, such as relieving fatigue, regulating acid-base balance in the blood, aiding calcium absorption, and dilating blood vessels, it does not have a specific therapeutic effect on bronchitis. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa caused by infection with pathogens such as viruses or bacteria, and its treatment requires targeted therapy against the causative pathogens, such as taking anti-inflammatory medications.

For patients with bronchitis, the irritant properties of vinegar may worsen symptoms such as coughing and phlegm production. Particularly acidic vinegar can further irritate the respiratory tract, potentially triggering or exacerbating respiratory discomfort.

Therefore, it is recommended that patients consume vinegar in moderation as part of their daily diet and avoid excessive intake to prevent adverse effects on recovery. Additionally, patients should maintain a light diet and avoid consuming irritating foods and beverages such as spicy dishes, tobacco, and alcohol, in order to reduce the burden on the respiratory system.