Category: Cold and flu

According to a 2017 study published in *Frontiers in Immunology*, increased sugar intake can suppress the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. This has led many to question whether a high-sugar diet could be detrimental when suffering from a cough. The simple answer is yes, excessive sugar consumption can exacerbate your cough symptoms, affecting your body's healing process through several key mechanisms.

According to nutritional data, a standard dose of liquid DayQuil can contain up to 19 grams of carbohydrates, including 13 grams of sugar. This makes the popular cold medicine an immediate threat to the strict carb limits required to maintain a state of ketosis, leaving many on the keto diet scrambling for a safe alternative.

Staying hydrated is a cornerstone of common cold self-care, as fluids help to thin the mucus causing your symptoms. When considering what's the best drink for a runny nose, options range from simple water to specialized herbal teas designed to provide both hydration and therapeutic effects. Warm liquids, in particular, offer soothing relief and help to clear nasal passages.

While a fatal overdose from menthol cough sweets is extremely rare, consuming too many can lead to unpleasant side effects like stomach upset and diarrhea. Many people mistake these lozenges for regular candy, unaware of the active ingredients that can cause problems in large quantities when dosage instructions are ignored.

According to a survey from Delsym, popsicles are a top-rated sick-day comfort food, but many people question their healthfulness. So, is a popsicle bad for colds, or is it actually a helpful way to find relief? The truth is a little more nuanced than a simple 'yes' or 'no.'

Small studies suggest that taking elderberry extract early in the course of a cold or flu may help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. This has made it a popular natural remedy for seasonal illnesses, but its effectiveness and safety profile warrant closer examination.

Reports suggest that for individuals with a sensitive throat or mucus buildup, certain fruits can worsen symptoms. Choosing the right diet is an often-overlooked step in managing a cough, and knowing what to avoid can make a significant difference in your recovery time.

According to a 2020 review in *BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine*, honey can be more effective than standard treatments for upper respiratory infections. To harness its full potential, understanding what strength Manuka honey for cough is best for your needs is crucial, with higher ratings often indicating greater therapeutic benefits.

While caffeine is known as a vasoconstrictor that can temporarily narrow blood vessels, this effect is often counteracted by coffee's diuretic properties, which can lead to dehydration and thickened mucus. This dynamic reveals why simply asking 'Can coffee help with nasal congestion?' doesn't have a straightforward answer.

According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, consuming high amounts of sugar can inhibit the effectiveness of infection-fighting white blood cells for several hours. This suppression of your immune response is a primary reason to avoid sweet foods while your body is battling a cold. Understanding the science behind this can help you recover faster and feel better sooner.