Is it okay to eat cheese while coughing?

Recent studies have found that for most people, the link between dairy products and increased mucus production is primarily a myth. This means for most individuals, the question, 'Is it okay to eat cheese while coughing?' has a nuanced answer that isn't as simple as a yes or no.

Quick Summary

The belief that cheese worsens a cough by increasing mucus is widely debated. Scientific evidence suggests this link is often perceived rather than real, though some individuals may experience a thickening sensation. For those with sensitivities, it is wise to limit intake, but for most, moderate consumption is fine. Focus on soothing foods and staying hydrated for relief.

Key Points

• Limited Scientific Evidence: There is no conclusive scientific evidence for most people that eating cheese increases mucus production or worsens a cough.

• Texture, Not Secretion: The creamy texture of cheese can create a temporary sensation of thickened mucus in the throat, but it doesn't cause the body to produce more.

• Individual Sensitivity: People with specific respiratory conditions or dairy sensitivities might find that cheese aggravates their symptoms due to irritation, not increased mucus.

• Prioritize Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is more important for managing a cough, as it helps to thin mucus and soothe a sore throat.

• Soothing Alternatives: For sore throats, warm liquids with honey and ginger are more effective and less likely to cause irritation than dairy.

• Listen to Your Body: If you find that eating cheese personally makes your cough feel worse, it's best to avoid it during your recovery.

• Focus on Overall Diet: Limiting sugary, fatty, and processed foods is recommended to support your immune system while recovering from a cough.

The Mucus Myth: Does Cheese Really Make Coughs Worse?

For centuries, a common piece of folk wisdom suggests that consuming dairy products, including cheese, can worsen a cough by increasing mucus production. This belief, passed down through generations, has led many to completely eliminate cheese from their diet when they feel unwell. However, modern scientific research offers a more complex picture.

The Science Behind Dairy and Mucus

The sensation of thickened mucus after eating dairy is a common experience, but it's often more of a feeling than a physical reality. The creamy texture of cheese and other dairy products can mix with saliva and coat the throat, creating a temporary perception of thicker phlegm. For most people, this does not result in an actual increase in mucus secretion. A 2018 review in the Archives of Disease in Childhood found no evidence that dairy causes increased mucus production in the general population.

However, this conclusion comes with important caveats:

• Individual Sensitivity: Some individuals with pre-existing conditions or sensitivities might react differently. For instance, people with asthma or lactose intolerance might experience some irritation or a worsening of symptoms after consuming dairy. A trial of a dairy-free diet may help determine if dairy is a personal trigger.
• Specific Milk Proteins: A protein called $\beta$-casomorphin-7 ($\beta$-CM-7), derived from the breakdown of certain types of milk protein, has been hypothesized to stimulate mucus production in some individuals with specific sensitivities. This effect is not universally proven but may explain why a subset of the population finds relief by avoiding dairy.

Comparing Cheese During a Cough: Dos and Don'ts

When you're dealing with a cough, not all dietary choices are equal. The following table compares what to consider when consuming cheese and other foods.

Feature	Eating Cheese While Coughing (Moderate)	Alternatives When Coughing (Optimal)
Effect on Mucus	May create a sensation of thicker mucus due to creamy texture, though not proven to increase production for most people.	Honey, ginger, and peppermint can thin mucus and soothe the throat.
Nutritional Benefit	Provides protein and calcium, important for overall health.	Soups, broths, and lean protein can provide essential nutrients without irritation.
Irritation Potential	For some sensitive individuals, dairy can feel irritating to an already sore throat.	Warm teas, honey, and soft, non-acidic foods are generally soothing.
Potential Pitfall	High-fat, greasy cheeses can be harder to digest and potentially suppress the immune system.	Fatty, sugary, and processed foods should generally be avoided to support recovery.

The Importance of Hydration and Soothing Foods

Whether you decide to eat cheese or not, the most crucial part of managing a cough through diet is staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids keeps the throat moist and helps thin mucus, making it easier to cough up. Herbal teas with honey and lemon are particularly beneficial, as is hot chicken soup.

Tips for Managing Your Cough Through Diet:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink water, warm teas, and broth throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can thicken mucus. Dehydration can lead to increased mucus production, which worsens the cough.
• Incorporate Soothing Ingredients: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, and honey is a well-known cough suppressant. A combination of these in warm water can provide relief.
• Consider Soft, Non-Acidic Foods: If your throat is sore from coughing, stick to foods that won’t irritate it. Options like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and clear broths are gentle on the throat and easy to swallow.
• Limit Inflammatory Foods: A high intake of sugar, salt, and saturated fats can lead to increased inflammation in the body, potentially slowing recovery.
• Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to certain foods. If you find that cheese or other dairy products make you feel more congested, it's best to avoid them until your symptoms improve.

Conclusion

For the majority of people, the belief that consuming cheese worsens a cough is not supported by strong scientific evidence. The sensation of thicker mucus is often a temporary side effect of dairy's texture, rather than a physiological increase in mucus production. However, individual sensitivities vary, and some people with respiratory issues or lactose intolerance may find it beneficial to reduce their dairy intake. The key to managing a cough through diet is to prioritize hydration and choose soothing, nutrient-rich foods while limiting inflammatory and highly processed options. If you are concerned about your symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is always the best course of action.

For more information on the myth surrounding milk and mucus production, you can read the report from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy at www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-other-adverse-reactions/milk-mucus-and-cough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to eat cheese while coughing?

For most people, it is safe to eat cheese while coughing. Scientific evidence does not support the widespread belief that it increases mucus production. However, if you find that cheese irritates your throat or thickens your mucus, it's best to avoid it.

Why do some people feel more congested after eating cheese?

The feeling of increased congestion after eating cheese is often due to its creamy texture. It can create a temporary coating sensation in the mouth and throat, which some people mistake for increased mucus production. This perception is more common than an actual increase in mucus.

What foods are best for soothing a cough?

For soothing a cough, warm liquids like herbal tea with honey and lemon are highly effective. Broths, chicken soup, and ginger are also excellent choices for their anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. Stick to soft, non-acidic foods that won't irritate a sore throat.

Does avoiding cheese help clear up a cough faster?

For most individuals, avoiding cheese will not significantly speed up recovery from a cough. The focus should be on overall hydration and consuming nutrient-rich foods that support the immune system. Only if you have a personal sensitivity might avoiding it make a difference in comfort levels.

Can cheese cause a cough?

Cheese does not typically cause a cough. A cough is usually triggered by an infection, irritant, or underlying condition like allergies or GERD. The perception that it causes a cough is likely a result of the perceived thickening of mucus after consumption.

Are there any cheeses that are better to eat than others while coughing?

While the effect is largely individual, some suggest that lower-fat or softer cheeses might be less likely to cause the sensation of thicker mucus. However, the most important factor is personal tolerance. If you feel fine after eating a certain cheese, it is likely okay to continue eating it in moderation.

Should people with a dairy allergy avoid cheese when they have a cough?

Yes, people with a confirmed dairy allergy or sensitivity should continue to avoid cheese, especially when sick. Allergic reactions can include respiratory symptoms, and consuming allergens while ill can cause unnecessary discomfort.