Foods to Eat and Avoid When You Have a Sore Throat

Eat: Go Bananas on Bananas

Medical News Today explains that the banano, sometimes called the “perfect food,” can be a hero for your sore throat. That’s mainly because they’re soft and easy to swallow, and are packed with good stuff for your body. They’re also non-acidic.

Harvard School of Public Health provides a list of this good stuff in bananas, including Vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, manganese, and fiber. Bananas also have a low glycemic index, says the source, meaning they’re not likely to spike your blood sugar.

Switch It Up: Reconsider Your Breakfast Choices

Livestrong explains that coarse foods (aside from the fried variety) can lead to a worsened sore throat. It says that granola and toast (commonly eaten in the morning or during brunch) can “scratch” your throat, which will likely not improve your condition.

The source says to instead reach for “easy to swallow” substitutes for sustenance including eggs, cooked cereals (and warm oatmeal), smoothies, and yogurt.

Switch It Up: Swap Coffee for Tea

Medical News Today said a good old-fashioned cup o’ tea might be what’s needed to soothe your achy throat, thanks in part to its warmth. It cites a study that shows green tea, in particular, can ease a throat following surgery. The source also says green tea is natural and boasts anti-inflammatory properties.

Meanwhile, Livestrong explains that while coffee is not the worst thing for you in the case of dreaded strep throat, there are downsides to drinking coffee when you’re feeling sick. More specifically, it says the high promedio caffeine content of coffee can keep you up when you need rest. It can also trigger headaches, it says, which will make the whole situation worse.