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:
- Lung Health and Immune Support Supplement: For respiratory support & comfort when your throat hurts*
- Helps Soothe Sore Throat Symptoms: A great-tasting formula suitable for adults and kids 6 and over
- Herbal Supplements: With English plantain leaf, grindelia, eucalyptus leaf essential oil, and more
- 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.
Frequently Asked Question
Can specific foods or dietary changes help treat bronchitis?
Research reveals that a well-balanced diet rich in particular nutrients can boost your immune system and recovery from bronchitis, even though no meal will heal the condition. However, consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, especially during illness.
Which nutrients are most important for bronchitis management?
1. Antioxidants: Vitamin C, E, and beta-carotene in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help combat inflammation and free radical damage.
2. Vitamin D: Enhances immunological activity and has the potential to minimize inflammation. As your physician recommends, you should consider consuming fortified foods such as milk or supplements.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids: The consumption of flaxseeds and oily fish, such as salmon, are also excellent sources of these, which contribute to the reduction of inflammation and the enhancement of lung function.
4. Probiotics: Found in yogurt and fermented foods, they promote gut health, potentially improving immune response.
Are there any foods I should avoid during bronchitis?
1. Processed foods: In addition to being heavy in unhealthy fats, processed carbs, and added sugars, these foods can also make inflammation worse and impede the function of the immune system.
2. Dairy products: Some individuals experience increased mucus production with dairy. Consider alternatives like plant-based milk if it worsens your symptoms.
3. Sugary drinks and sweets: Excess sugar can suppress immune response and worsen inflammation. Choose water and unsweetened beverages instead.
What about hydration during bronchitis?
Maintaining proper hydration is essential for reducing the thickness of mucus and making it more straightforward to cough up. For optimal health, you should consume eight to ten glasses of water daily, or even more, if you are experiencing a fever or sweating a significant quantity. As an additional source of fluid intake, herbal teas, and broths can be consumed.
Can certain supplements help manage bronchitis?
Some supplements, like zinc or vitamin C, might offer immune support, but consult your doctor before taking any, as they can interact with medications or have side effects.
Is there a specific “bronchitis diet” I should follow?
No one-size-fits-all diet works for everyone with bronchitis. The primary focus of your attention should be on consuming a diet that is well-balanced and abundant in nutrients, with a large quantity of fruits, vegetables, healthy grains, and lean protein. Your primary care physician or a certified dietician can assist you in building a customized plan that considers your particular needs and circumstances about your health.
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
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: https://www.eatright.org/
- Antioxidants and Bronchitis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8773193/
- Vitamin D and Bronchitis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5079694/
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Bronchitis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34588776/
- Probiotics and Bronchitis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7647592/
- Diet and Chronic Bronchitis: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6627281/
- Foods to Avoid with Bronchitis: https://pharmeasy.in/blog/12-best-foods-to-ease-your-cough-and-cold/
- Hydration and Bronchitis: https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/video/hydrate-cold-flu-season
Last update on 2024-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API