The 'dry' foods to avoid if you've got Covid - and the 'perfect' snacks to eat instead
by Kathryn Riddell, Lauren Haughey · ChronicleLiveIf you're battling Covid or nursing a sore throat, indulging in comfort foods like chocolate or cheese and crackers might seem like the only solace.
However, one expert has issued a warning that certain treats could potentially exacerbate the situation - so it's vital to maintain discipline even when feeling unwell.
Dr Gareth Nye, a Senior Lecturer at Chester Medical School (@dr. gareth.nye), says anything 'dry or hard' such as biscuits and crunchy cereals should be avoided for those recovering from throat pain, reports the Mirror.
In an exclusive interview, he elaborated: "Any food which is dry or hard to swallow – biscuits, crackers are good examples.
"In addition, fizzy drinks or spicy foods can aggravate the throat membrane making it hurt more. Some people find dairy [including chocolate] can make a sore throat worse as it coats the throat allowing mucus to build up leading to more frequent coughing episodes.
"The coughing ultimately leads to increased damage to the throat and a increased discomfort."
Dr Nye's insights come just a month after Brits were alerted about a new 'XEC Covid variant', with a sore throat, cough, fever and nausea listed as its most prevalent symptoms, according to US-based scientists.
Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, has assured the public that it is 'normal and expected for viruses to genetically change over time,' but with scientists alarmed over the climbing case numbers, staying healthy this winter has become a prime concern. Meanwhile, Dr Nye suggests a specific approach for those grappling with Covid or a sore throat: "Ideally the easier a food is to eat the better when you have a sore throat. Liquids like soups and smoothies are perfect as they are often packed full of vitamins and minerals your body needs to fight off any infections.
"Often people find cold drinks or ice lollies [or] ice creams can help numb the throat which can alleviate some of the discomfort. Aside from cold desserts or soups, make sure you are eating plenty of fruit and vegetables to boost your vitamin and mineral reserves, eating high protein foods like eggs are also very useful."
While common remedies are highlighted for their ease and nutritional benefits, Dr Nye emphasises the natural defensive response of the body: "It's always good to remember the sore throat is because you body is fighting off an infection and you should let it do so without interruption."
He advises against medication, advocating for rest and proper intake of fluids and nutrients instead: "You are always best off managing without medication through rest, plenty of fluids and maintaining a source of nutrients."
Join our WhatsApp communities
ChronicleLive is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our communities.
We have a number of communities to join, so you can choose which one you want to be part of and we'll send you the latest news direct to your phone. You could even join them all!
To join you need to have WhatsApp on your device. All you need to do is choose which community you want to join, click on the link and press 'join community'.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the ChronicleLive team.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
If you’re curious, you can read our privacy notice.
Join the ChronicleLive Breaking News and Top Stories community
Join our Court & Crime community
Join the Things to do in Newcastle and the North East community
Join our Northumberland community
Join our County Durham community
Join our Great North Run community