Can I eat cashews during a cough and cold?

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, zinc is vital for proper immune function, and cashews are a good source of this mineral. This brings up the question, "Can I eat cashews during a cough and cold?" The short answer is yes, cashews can be beneficial, provided they are consumed in moderation and are not salted or sweetened.

Quick Summary

Cashews are rich in zinc, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can support the immune system during a cold. Unsalted, dry-roasted cashews may even act as a natural mucolytic to help loosen congestion. However, those with a tree nut allergy or a tendency for excessive mucus should exercise caution.

Key Points

Immune Support: Cashews are a source of zinc and antioxidants, which are vital for immune function and can help fight infections like the common cold.
Soothes Congestion: Unsalted, plain cashews may act as a natural mucolytic, helping to break down and loosen mucus and providing relief from congestion.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The antioxidants in cashews, such as vitamins E and K, can help reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for an irritated throat or respiratory tract.
Choose Plain Over Salted: For best results, opt for unsalted, dry-roasted cashews, as high sodium and sugar from seasoned versions can increase inflammation and irritate a sore throat.
Allergy Caution: Individuals with a cashew or tree nut allergy should avoid cashews completely, as they can cause severe allergic reactions, including wheezing and difficulty breathing.
Hydration is Key: Always pair cashew consumption with plenty of fluids, as their dry texture can be challenging for a sore throat, and hydration is crucial during a cold.
Consider Softer Forms: If you have a sore throat, try consuming cashews as a warm cashew milk or a smooth nut butter to make them easier to swallow.

Nutritional Benefits of Cashews During a Cold

When you're dealing with a cough and cold, your body is fighting an infection, and proper nutrition is crucial for recovery. Cashews offer several nutrients that can be particularly helpful.

Immune-Boosting Minerals and Antioxidants

Cashews contain zinc, vital for immune cell function and potentially shortening cold duration. They also provide copper, essential for immune function and iron absorption, and magnesium, supporting immune health. Additionally, cashews are rich in antioxidants like vitamins E and K, polyphenols, and carotenoids, which help reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals, benefiting irritated respiratory tracts.

Potential for Loosening Congestion

Some believe cashews can act as a natural mucolytic, thinning mucus. Unsalted, plain cashews are less likely to irritate the throat than seasoned varieties that can worsen a cough.

The Importance of Preparation

Choose plain, unsalted, dry-roasted cashews to avoid irritation. Excess salt can dehydrate and irritate a sore throat, while sugar can increase inflammation. For a sore throat, warm, low-sugar cashew milk or smooth nut butter can be soothing.

Potential Downsides and Precautions

While beneficial, cashews should be consumed with caution or avoided in certain situations.

Allergic Reactions

Individuals with cashew or tree nut allergies face severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Mucus Production

Some report nuts increasing mucus. If cashews worsen congestion, avoid them while sick.

Digestive Issues

High fiber can cause discomfort for some if large amounts are consumed.

Comparison: Cashews vs. Other Cold-Fighting Foods


Feature	Cashews	Almonds	Chicken Soup	Ginger Tea
Immune Support	High in zinc, copper, antioxidants	Rich in Vitamin E, antioxidants	Hydrating, anti-inflammatory	Anti-inflammatory, soothing
Sore Throat Comfort	Can be irritating if crunchy; soothing as milk	Crunchy texture can irritate throat	Warm broth is very soothing	Soothing, anti-inflammatory effect
Congestion Relief	Can act as a mucolytic for some	Provides protein and healthy fats	Steam from broth helps congestion	Helps relieve nasal congestion
Preparation	Best unsalted, dry-roasted or as milk	Often roasted or eaten raw	Simple to prepare, easy to digest	Simple to brew, naturally soothing
Potential Issues	Allergy risk, potential throat irritation	Allergy risk, high calories	Sodium content can be high	Can be spicy, some dislike flavor

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Health

Eating plain, unsalted cashews in moderation is generally safe and potentially beneficial due to nutrients like zinc and antioxidants. Avoid excessive salt or sugar. Listen to your body and avoid cashews if they worsen symptoms. Individuals with nut allergies must avoid them. Consult a healthcare professional for severe symptoms.

Expert-recommended practices for consuming cashews while sick

Opt for Unsalted and Unroasted: Minimizes throat irritation.
Blend for Soothing Effects: Warmer forms are easier on a sore throat.
Pair with Other Nutrients: Boosts immune support with other healthy foods.
Watch for Allergies: Be alert for severe reactions like wheezing.
Stay Hydrated: Drink fluids, especially with dry cashews.
Start with a Small Amount: Assess your body's reaction.
Avoid Excessive Quantities: Prevents potential digestive issues.

A Final Word

Cashews can complement a healthy diet during a cold but are not a standalone remedy. Combine them with a balanced diet, hydration, and rest. Choose the right preparation and consume in moderation. Consult reliable health sources for more dietary advice during illness.

Visit Healthline for more detailed information on cashews and your health

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, salted cashews can be bad for a cough. The high sodium content can cause dehydration and irritate an already sore throat, potentially worsening your symptoms.

While crunchy cashews might irritate a sore throat, consuming them in a smoother form, like a warm cashew milk or a blend, can be soothing and provide beneficial nutrients. However, chicken soup or ginger tea are typically more recommended.

The best way to eat cashews during a cold is to choose plain, unsalted, and dry-roasted varieties. You can also blend them into a low-sugar, warm cashew milk or a smooth butter for easier swallowing.

In some individuals, certain foods like nuts can increase mucus production. If you find your congestion worsens after eating cashews, it is best to avoid them while you are sick.

Cashews are a good source of zinc, which can support immune function during a cold. However, they are not a cure-all, and a healthy immune system requires a variety of nutrients from a balanced diet.

Yes, risks include allergic reactions for those with tree nut allergies, throat irritation from crunchy or salted cashews, and potential digestive issues if consumed in large quantities.

Some people find that cold milk, and dairy in general, can increase mucus production. While cashew milk can be soothing, warm is often better than cold when you have a cough.