Should I Eat Hot or Cold Things With a Sore Throat?

A sore throat is a common symptom of viral infections like the common cold, causing pain and difficulty swallowing. When discomfort strikes, many people find themselves asking: should I eat hot or cold things with a sore throat?

Quick Summary

The best temperature for food and drinks to soothe a sore throat is a matter of personal preference, as both hot and cold options offer unique benefits. Warm liquids can help thin mucus, while cold foods provide numbing relief and reduce swelling.

Key Points

• Personal Preference is Key: There is no single 'best' temperature; both hot and cold can offer relief, and you should choose what feels most soothing to you.

• Cold Numbing Action: Cold foods like popsicles and chilled smoothies can numb pain and help reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat.

• Warmth Thins Mucus: Warm liquids, such as broth and tea, increase salivation and help thin out mucus, which can relieve congestion and post-nasal drip irritation.

• Avoid Irritating Foods: Steer clear of acidic, crunchy, spicy, or excessively hot foods and drinks, as they can further irritate and inflame a sensitive throat.

• Stay Hydrated: Regardless of temperature, maintaining good hydration is critical for keeping throat tissues moist and aiding the healing process.

• Consider the Side Effects: Be mindful of high-sugar cold treats, which can increase inflammation, and ensure warm drinks are not too hot to prevent burns.

Finding Relief: The Role of Temperature and Personal Preference

When a sore throat takes hold, the simple act of swallowing can feel like torture. The inflamed tissues and heightened nerve sensitivity in the throat often lead people to seek comfort in food and drink. While some people instinctively reach for a bowl of warm soup, others find immediate relief in a cold ice pop. The truth is, there is no single answer to whether hot or cold is superior; what works best depends on the individual and the specific symptoms they are experiencing. Both temperatures can be effective, just through different physiological mechanisms. The most important thing is to listen to your body and find what is most soothing for you, while avoiding foods that can cause further irritation.

The Case for Cold: Numbing the Pain and Reducing Swelling

Cold foods and drinks offer a simple, direct way to combat the pain of a sore throat. Think of it as applying an ice pack to the inside of your throat. This effect is particularly beneficial if your throat feels very inflamed or swollen.

How cold foods help

• Numbing effect: The cold temperature can temporarily dull the pain-sensitive nerve endings in the throat, providing immediate, localized relief. This numbing sensation can make swallowing significantly easier.
• Reduces inflammation and swelling: Cold causes blood vessels to constrict (a process called vasoconstriction), which can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat tissues. This is the same principle behind using ice on a sprained ankle.

Best cold options to try

• Ice pops and ice chips: These are classic choices that offer hydration and a numbing effect. Opt for low-sugar or 100% fruit juice varieties to avoid excess sugar, which can increase inflammation.
• Smoothies: A nutrient-dense smoothie with non-acidic fruits like bananas and mangoes can be a full meal replacement when swallowing is difficult. Blend with yogurt or a plant-based milk for a creamy texture that is easy to get down.
• Yogurt: The cool, soft texture of yogurt is very soothing. Probiotics in some yogurts can also help support your immune system. If dairy seems to increase mucus, try a plant-based alternative.
• Ice cream: While offering temporary numbing relief, many health experts advise caution with ice cream due to its high sugar content, which can suppress the immune system and increase inflammation. Enjoy in moderation or choose a low-sugar alternative.

The Case for Warmth: Soothing and Thinning Mucus

For many, a gentle warmth provides a different, but equally comforting, form of relief. Warm liquids can help address the symptoms of congestion and dryness that often accompany a sore throat.

How warm foods help

• Thins mucus: The warmth and steam from hot beverages help to thin out mucus, making it easier to clear from the throat and nasal passages. This can alleviate irritation caused by post-nasal drip.
• Promotes salivation: Warm fluids can increase saliva production, which helps to lubricate the throat and promote a moist, comfortable environment for healing.
• Relaxing effect: The sensory warmth of a hot drink can have a calming, almost placebo-like effect that helps to soothe generalized discomfort and reduce coughing.

Best warm options to try

• Broths and soups: Warm, low-sodium chicken or vegetable broths are hydrating and provide essential nutrients when you don't feel like eating solid foods. The salt in broth can also have a soothing effect.
• Herbal tea with honey: Herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, or peppermint can be very soothing. Adding a spoonful of honey can coat the throat and provide a pleasant, antibacterial boost (never give honey to children under 1 year old).
• Warm lemon water with honey: This classic remedy combines the soothing properties of honey with a vitamin C boost. The warmth and lemon can also help with congestion.
• Oatmeal or soft cooked cereals: Warm, soft grains like oatmeal are easy to swallow and can be made more palatable with a little honey for extra soothing.

Foods to Avoid with a Sore Throat

Just as some foods can provide relief, others can make your symptoms much worse. It is crucial to avoid anything that can irritate or inflame your sensitive throat tissues.

• Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), tomatoes, and juices made from them can sting and aggravate the throat lining.
• Hard or crunchy foods: Crackers, toast, chips, nuts, and raw vegetables have abrasive textures that can scratch the throat as they go down.
• Spicy foods: Chili powder, hot sauce, and other spices can heighten irritation and pain.
• Very hot foods and drinks: While warm is good, extremely hot temperatures can burn and further damage the sensitive tissues of your throat.
• Caffeine and alcohol: These can both contribute to dehydration, which will dry out your throat and worsen the pain.

Hot vs. Cold for Sore Throat Relief: A Comparison Table

Aspect	Cold Food/Drink	Warm Food/Drink
Pain Relief	Provides immediate, numbing relief by chilling nerve endings.	Offers sustained, comforting relief by soothing and lubricating the throat.
Mechanism	Causes vasoconstriction, which reduces swelling and inflammation.	Increases salivation and thins mucus, helping to clear congestion.
Best Examples	Popsicles, smoothies, yogurt, ice chips.	Broths, herbal tea with honey, warm lemon water, oatmeal.
Drawbacks	High-sugar options can promote inflammation and weaken the immune system.	Can potentially burn the throat if too hot, so proper temperature is key.

General Tips for Soothing a Sore Throat

Regardless of your temperature preference, there are several other steps you can take to speed up recovery and improve comfort.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Dehydration can dry out the throat, making pain worse. Staying hydrated is crucial. For more information on general hydration benefits, Healthline offers a great resource.
• Gargle with Saltwater: A warm saltwater gargle can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• Use a Humidifier: Especially overnight, a cool-mist humidifier can add moisture to the air and prevent your throat from drying out.
• Rest Your Voice: Giving your vocal cords a break is vital for recovery, especially if you've been speaking or shouting a lot.

Conclusion: Listen to Your Body

Ultimately, the choice between hot and cold foods and drinks for a sore throat is a personal one. Both offer valid and effective methods for alleviating pain and discomfort. Experiment safely with different temperatures and consistencies to see what provides you with the most relief. Prioritizing soft, non-irritating foods and staying well-hydrated are the most important steps. If your sore throat persists, worsens, or is accompanied by a high fever, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ice cream good for a sore throat?

Ice cream can provide temporary numbing relief due to its cold temperature. However, many health professionals advise moderation because high sugar content can increase inflammation, and dairy can make mucus feel thicker for some people.

Does chicken soup really help a sore throat?

Yes, chicken soup is a great option. The warm broth is soothing, helps to thin mucus, and provides hydration and nutrients, while the salt can help soothe irritation.

Should I drink orange juice with a sore throat?

It is best to avoid orange juice and other acidic juices. The citric acid can irritate the inflamed throat tissues and worsen the burning sensation.

What kind of tea is best for a sore throat?

Herbal teas like ginger, chamomile, or peppermint are excellent choices. They are often caffeine-free and can be made more soothing with honey.

Are popsicles a good choice for sore throat relief?

Yes, popsicles can be very soothing, especially if your throat is swollen and painful. Look for fruit-based, lower-sugar options to maximize benefits.

Should I gargle with salt water?

Yes, gargling with warm salt water is a widely recommended home remedy. It can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat.

Why is very hot food bad for a sore throat?

While warm is good, very hot foods and drinks can burn and further damage the sensitive, inflamed tissue of your throat, increasing pain and potentially delaying recovery.