Are you prone to common cold? Check out the food items that make the problem worse

Cold is one of the commonest infections that makes people fall sick. There are a few things you can do to prevent aggravation of the common cold problems, especially if you are prone to it.

As the name suggests, the common cold is one of the commonest forms of viral infections that affect the upper respiratory tract. This infection results in a blocked or runny nose, sore throat, sneezing and congestion.

Some people even experience a high temperature. More often than not, this health condition gets cured on its own without taking medicines. And sometimes, there arises a need to consult the doctor to get riddance from the discomforts caused.

However, there are a few things you can do to prevent aggravation of the common cold problems, especially if you are prone to it.

1) Oily foods and junk food

You must avoid having deep-fried or oily foods because they will make you feel worse. These foods tend to create more mucus formation, which in turn delays your recovery period. Therefore, avoid having food preparations which have too much oil or the deep-fried ones. You must also avoid eating junk foods or preparations bought from street vendors.

2) Dairy products

Dairy products such as cheese, condensed milk or refrigerated curd must be avoided when you have a common cold. Though these are rich in calcium and other vital nutrients, people must avoid consuming them as they thicken the mucus.

3) Caffeine 

Caffeine in coffee dehydrates the body, and therefore, you must avoid having foods that contain this ingredient. The best way to get rid of the common cold is by thinning the mucus, but caffeine ends up causing dehydration which in turn makes matters worse.

4) Sweets

Avoid gorging on sweets and desserts or sweetened fruit juices (juices containing sugar) when you have a common cold problem. Sweets food preparations prevent your body's resistance power from doing its job, and hence you must keep the "sweetness" away for a few days.

5) Acidic, fermented foods or the ones that you are allergic to

It is best to avoid fermented foods and even fruit juices when you are suffering from a common cold. You must also strictly avoid eating any food that you are allergic to.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.