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Bronchitis is the inflammation of the mucosa lining the bronchial passages. It is usually caused by infection and exacerbated by inhaling irritant fumes such as tobacco smoke. There are various foods to eat when sick with bronchitis that contain healing properties such as:
- Mucolytics: These soften and promote the expulsion of mucus. Examples are onions and radishes.
- Emollients: These, such as okra, dates, and figs, soften and reduce inflammation in the respiratory mucosa.
- Antibiotics and antiseptics: Foods such as garlic and propolis combat bacteria and viruses that cause or aggravate bronchitis.
Foods To Eat When Sick With Bronchitis
ONION: The essential oil in onions responsible for their typical odor is a mucolytic, expectorant, and antibiotic, which is very suitable for acute or chronic bronchitis. They are best eaten raw to take full advantage of their healing power. It is also helpful to inhale their essence.
GARLIC: The sulfurated essence of garlic is antibiotic and mucolytic. Since this essence is eliminated through the respiratory system through the breath, it is beneficial in respiratory infections.
RADISH: Radishes are amongst the best foods to eat when sick with bronchitis because they contain a piquant sulfurated essence that facilitates the removal of excess bronchial mucus.
HORSERADISH: The composition and activity of horseradish are similar to those of the common radish. They decongest and cleanse the bronchial tubes.
LEEK: Leeks contain an essence that has a mucus-dissolving action that is similar to that of onions.
WATERCRESS: Watercress contains a sulfurated compound that gives it its slightly piquant flavor and serves as an expectorant.
Okra Soothes the Respiratory and Digestive Tracts
JUJUBE: Due to the mucilage it contains, it softens the respiratory tract and enables expectoration, which is beneficial in cases of bronchitis.
DATE: Dates are a great addition to this list of foods to eat when sick with bronchitis because they soften the respiratory mucosa. They form a traditional remedy for bronchitis and bronchial colds when boiled in milk.
BORAGE: This food contains emollient mucilage. It is most beneficial to the bronchial tubes used together with its broth after boiling.
FIG: Figs quiet cough, are expectorant, and soothe the respiratory tract. Besides, they are a source of iron and B vitamins.
OKRA: Okra is a popular food in the Middle East. It is very rich in mucilage and soothes the digestive and respiratory tracts.
HONEY: Honey has a mild sedating, antitussive, and emollient effect on the respiratory system.
PROPOLIS: Propolis is a natural antibiotic bees produce using vegetable resins and waxes. It protects and reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract and is effective against viruses. Its use is recommended in cases of acute infectious bronchitis and chronic conditions caused by tobacco or other causes.
VITAMIN A: Vitamin A is necessary for the health of the cells that line the bronchial tubes. Carrots, leafy green vegetables, and fruits such as mangos or apricots are good beta-carotene sources, transforming into vitamin A in the body.
Top Rated Supplements for Bronchitis
Foods To Avoid When Sick With Bronchitis
SALT: Sodium retains fluid in the tissues, detrimental to an infectious or inflammatory process such as bronchitis. Reducing or eliminating salt (particularly the hidden salt in processed foods) is an excellent indication of how to cure bronchitis fast.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES: Alcoholic beverages lower resistance to disease and slow recovery from bronchitis.
SATURATED FAT: Excess saturated fat, common in the omnivorous Western diet, weakens the immune system and slows recovery from bronchitis. Saturated fats are among the main foods to avoid when you have a chest infection and bronchitis.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. You should not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 139. Print. [foods to eat when sick with bronchitis]
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430791/
- American Lung Association: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd