Is Banana Shake Good When Sick? Benefits, Risks, & What to Know

November 16, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that bananas are a key component of the bland BRAT diet, often recommended for digestive issues? This popular fact leads many to wonder: is banana shake good when sick? The answer depends on your symptoms, the ingredients used, and how your body reacts.

Quick Summary

A banana shake can be beneficial for sicknesses involving digestive upset, providing easy-to-digest energy and nutrients. For respiratory illnesses, individual tolerance varies due to traditional beliefs and personal experiences regarding mucus production.

Key Points

Sore Throat Soother: The soft, non-acidic texture of a banana shake can be very comforting for a painful or irritated throat.
Digestive Aid: Bananas are easy to digest, part of the BRAT diet, and can help with nausea, an upset stomach, and diarrhea.
Electrolyte Replenishment: Rich in potassium, a banana shake can help replace lost electrolytes from fever or dehydration.
Beware of Mucus: Some individuals and traditional medicine systems believe bananas and dairy can increase mucus, potentially worsening coughs and congestion.
Modify for Symptoms: Use non-dairy milk or avoid it if you're concerned about mucus. Consider adding ginger for nausea or honey for a cough.
Listen to Your Body: Individual reactions vary. What works for one person might not work for another. Monitor your symptoms and adjust your diet accordingly.

The Potential Benefits of a Banana Shake When Sick

When you are feeling under the weather, a banana shake can be a convenient and nourishing option. Its soft texture, bland flavor, and nutrient content can offer relief for several common ailments.

Soothes Upset Stomachs

Bananas are famous for being easy on the digestive system, which is why they are part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast). The fruit contains soluble fiber that can help regulate bowel movements and can be especially useful for diarrhea. It also stimulates mucus production in the stomach lining, which can create a barrier against acidic gastric substances, helping with heartburn and nausea.

Replenishes Essential Electrolytes

Fevers, sweating, and vomiting can lead to dehydration and a loss of crucial electrolytes, such as potassium. Bananas are a fantastic source of potassium and can help replenish these depleted stores, aiding in recovery.

Provides Easily Accessible Energy

Bananas contain natural sugars like fructose and glucose, along with complex carbohydrates. When your appetite is low and energy levels are sapped, a simple banana shake offers a quick and sustained boost of energy to help your body fight infection.

Offers Relief for a Sore Throat

The soft, smooth texture of a banana shake can be incredibly soothing for a sore, scratchy throat. Unlike acidic fruits that can cause irritation, bananas are low in acidity, making them a gentle and easy-to-swallow food choice. The cool temperature can also help numb discomfort.

The Potential Downsides and Considerations

While generally beneficial, a banana shake is not a one-size-fits-all remedy for every type of sickness. There are some factors to consider, particularly for respiratory illnesses.

A Contested Link to Mucus Production

Some traditional systems of medicine, like Ayurveda, suggest that bananas are "cold" and can increase mucus production in the body, potentially worsening coughs and congestion. Scientific evidence is mixed, and this effect varies significantly by individual. Furthermore, some people find that the dairy in a traditional milkshake also increases mucus. If you have a chesty cough with a lot of phlegm, you might want to consider a dairy-free alternative.

The Cold Temperature Factor

For those experiencing chills or a high fever, consuming a very cold beverage like an iced banana shake might be less appealing or feel counterintuitive. While coldness can soothe a sore throat, warmth is often more comforting during a fever.

Individual Sensitivities and Allergies

In rare cases, individuals with specific allergies or conditions like asthma may find that bananas can cause a histamine reaction, leading to increased mucus or coughing. It is always best to listen to your body and its reaction to any food.

Banana Shake vs. Other Common Sickness Remedies: A Comparison


Feature	Banana Shake (with dairy)	Chicken Soup	Herbal Tea (with honey)	Electrolyte Drink (e.g., sports drink)
Best for...	Nausea, low appetite, sore throat, digestive issues.	Colds, flu, congestion, providing nourishment and hydration.	Sore throat, general hydration, soothing warmth.	Dehydration, replacing lost minerals.
Ease of Digestion	Very high; gentle on the stomach.	High; hot liquids are comforting.	High; easily absorbed.	Very high; quickly absorbed.
Nutrient Density	High (carbs, potassium, vitamins).	Moderate to high (protein, sodium, vitamins).	Low to moderate (vitamins from fruit/honey).	Low; mainly sugar, sodium, and potassium.
Potential Downside	May increase mucus in some individuals due to dairy or fruit properties.	High sodium content in canned varieties.	May be too hot for a sensitive throat.	High sugar content.
Symptom Relief	Soothes throat, aids digestion, energy boost.	Thins mucus, hydrates, anti-inflammatory.	Soothes throat, hydrates.	Rehydrates, rebalances electrolytes.

A Simple Recipe for a Sickness-Friendly Shake

To create a nutrient-rich and gentle banana shake, consider a dairy-free or low-sugar approach. A simple, effective recipe might include:

One ripe, soft banana
1 cup of almond milk, coconut milk, or plain yogurt
1 teaspoon of honey (for sore throat)
A pinch of grated ginger (good for nausea)

Blend all ingredients until smooth. You can also add oats for extra fiber and gut-soothing properties.

When to Consult a Doctor

While a banana shake can be a helpful comfort food, it is not a cure for serious illness. You should always consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

High or persistent fever
Difficulty breathing
Severe pain
Symptoms that worsen or do not improve

For mild, common symptoms, a thoughtfully prepared banana shake can be a part of a comfortable and hydrating recovery plan. Always prioritize rest, proper hydration, and your body's signals.

Conclusion: Listen to Your Body

The question of "is banana shake good when sick?" has a nuanced answer. For those with digestive issues, nausea, or a sore throat, a banana shake can be a very beneficial and easily digestible source of nutrients, electrolytes, and energy. However, for individuals concerned about mucus production due to congestion or cough, particularly those who follow traditional medical views like Ayurveda, caution or a dairy-free alternative is warranted. The key is to listen to your body and adjust the recipe to suit your specific symptoms and needs. Choosing the right ingredients and temperature can make all the difference in your comfort and recovery.

Visit WebMD for more information on foods to eat when you have the flu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, a banana shake can be good for a fever. Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps replenish electrolytes lost through sweating. The easily digestible nutrients also provide energy when you have a low appetite.

The belief that banana shakes increase mucus is a point of debate. Some traditional health practices and individuals report increased mucus production, especially when combined with dairy. For most people, it is not a major issue, but if you have a congested cough, consider a dairy-free shake or an alternative remedy.

A cold shake is generally not recommended for coughs, particularly if you have chills, as it can feel unpleasant. If you have a sore throat, the cold may provide temporary relief, but it won't address the cough itself. Many find a warm, hydrating liquid more comforting for a cough.

If you're concerned about mucus or follow Ayurvedic principles, using a non-dairy milk like almond milk or coconut milk is a good choice. For others, plain yogurt or low-fat milk can provide added protein and probiotics.

Yes, adding ingredients can enhance the benefits. Ginger is excellent for nausea, while a spoonful of honey can help soothe a sore throat and has antibacterial properties. Oats can also add soluble fiber for improved gut health.

Yes, bananas are a go-to food for stomach bugs involving nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Their bland taste, high potassium content, and easy digestibility make them a suitable option.

Pay attention to your symptoms after consumption. If your cough or congestion worsens, or you experience any discomfort, it might be a sign of sensitivity. If this happens, it's best to stop and try another remedy. For most, a moderate intake causes no adverse effects.