Can people with coughs eat watermelon?
Disease description:
I am 23 years old this year. I recently caught a cold and have been coughing severely. However, I feel like eating watermelon and want to know whether people with coughs can eat watermelon.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Generally, people with coughs can eat watermelon, but the quantity should be adjusted according to individual circumstances, and attention should be paid to the method of consumption.
Watermelon contains a large amount of water. Eating it appropriately during a cough can help replenish the body's fluid needs and alleviate throat dryness and discomfort. Its rich juice can moisturize the throat mucosa and may help relieve cough symptoms. Watermelon is also rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, and moderate consumption can enhance immunity and promote recovery from coughing.
However, it should be eaten in moderation. Although watermelon may help alleviate coughs, excessive consumption can burden the gastrointestinal system, potentially causing discomfort such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Chilled watermelon should be avoided when coughing, as overly cold foods may irritate the throat and respiratory mucous membranes, worsening cough symptoms. It is recommended to consume watermelon at room temperature. Individual body conditions vary, as does the response to food, so it's advisable to adjust your diet according to your own situation. Maintaining good lifestyle habits, ensuring adequate rest, and avoiding excessive fatigue are also important factors in speeding up recovery.
