Although colds are minor illnesses, they are commonly encountered in daily life. When someone has a cold, the body may experience various discomforts, which seriously affect daily activities. During a cold, appetite may decrease, so it is advisable to consume light and nutritious foods, such as millet porridge. In terms of vegetables, it is important to consume more green leafy vegetables rich in vitamin C.
Firstly, individuals with a cold should avoid sweet foods. Therefore, both high-sugar fruits and desserts should be avoided during a cold, as consuming sweet foods can increase the viscosity and amount of mucus, which is not conducive to recovery. Additionally, it can cause bloating and affect appetite. Common high-sugar fruits include grapes, lychees, and red dates.
Secondly, cold patients should also avoid high-salt foods. Reducing salt intake can increase the content of dissolved enzymes in saliva, protecting oral health and promoting the secretion of immunoglobulins, which strengthen the patient's ability to fight cold viruses. However, it is essential not to eliminate salt entirely during a cold, as sweating can lead to the loss of sodium ions in the body, which should be replenished in time. The daily salt intake during a cold should be controlled at around 5 grams.
Lastly, foods rich in coarse dietary fiber, such as coriander and celery, should be avoided during a cold. This is because they can increase the burden on the patient's digestive system. Additionally, spicy and fried foods should also be avoided as they can exacerbate symptoms like headaches, coughing, and nasal congestion during a cold.
The main cause of a cold is a weakened immune system. Once someone contracts a cold, it is advisable to rest for a day or two, maintaining at least 8 hours of sleep per day and reducing outdoor activities to prevent spreading the virus to others.
