What is the best thing to drink when you have pneumonia?

December 27, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, drinking plenty of fluids is critical for individuals with pneumonia to stay hydrated and help loosen mucus in the lungs. Selecting the right beverages can provide significant relief from symptoms and aid the recovery process.

Quick Summary

Staying hydrated is crucial for managing pneumonia symptoms, with fluids like water, herbal tea, and broth helping to thin mucus. Avoiding dehydrating drinks like alcohol and caffeine is also important. Warm beverages can soothe the throat, while electrolyte-enhanced drinks help maintain fluid balance.

Key Points

Stay Hydrated with Water: Drinking plenty of water is the most important step to thin mucus and prevent dehydration during pneumonia.
Soothe with Warm Liquids: Herbal teas, especially peppermint, ginger, or turmeric tea, and clear broths can help loosen mucus and soothe a sore throat.
Boost Immunity with Nutrients: Soups, low-sugar juices, and smoothies can provide essential vitamins and minerals, which are especially helpful if your appetite is low.
Replenish Electrolytes: If dehydrated, natural options like coconut water or electrolyte-enhanced drinks can help restore fluid balance.
Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Steer clear of caffeine and alcohol, as they can worsen dehydration and interfere with recovery.
Monitor Your Symptoms: While hydration is crucial, it's a supportive measure, not a cure. Always follow your doctor's treatment plan, especially for prescribed antibiotics.

Why Hydration is Crucial During Pneumonia

When you are battling pneumonia, your body is working overtime to fight the infection, which often leads to fever and increased fluid loss. Maintaining adequate hydration is paramount for several reasons. First, fluids are essential for thinning the thick mucus and phlegm that accumulate in the lungs. This makes it easier for your body to expel the mucus through coughing, which is a key part of clearing the infection. Second, fevers can lead to dehydration, so replenishing fluids helps regulate your body temperature and prevent this from happening. Finally, proper hydration supports the immune system, helping your body function optimally while it combats the illness.

The Best Drinks to Aid Recovery

There is no single "best" drink, but rather a category of hydrating and soothing options that can greatly assist with recovery. A well-rounded approach includes several types of beverages to meet different needs during the illness.

Water: This is the most fundamental and effective fluid for hydration. Drinking plenty of pure filtered water throughout the day helps thin mucus and is gentle on the stomach. Aim for around 8 to 10 glasses, but listen to your body and adjust as needed.
Herbal Tea: Warm beverages can be particularly soothing for a sore throat and can help loosen mucus. Herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that can further aid in recovery. Peppermint can act as a decongestant, while ginger and turmeric have long been used to fight inflammation. Adding a spoonful of honey can also provide additional antimicrobial benefits and soothe a cough.
Broth-Based Soups: Chicken soup and vegetable broth are excellent choices. They provide both hydration and valuable nutrients and electrolytes that the body needs when appetite is low. The warmth can also help to soothe the throat and chest.
Low-Sugar Juices: While many fruit juices are high in sugar, low-sugar options or homemade juices from citrus fruits can provide a dose of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Look for juices without added sweeteners, or dilute them with water to minimize sugar intake.
Coconut Water: For replenishing electrolytes, coconut water is a natural source and can be a great alternative to commercial sports drinks, which are often high in sugar.
Electrolyte Drinks: In cases of severe dehydration, electrolyte-enhanced beverages like Pedialyte or low-sugar sports drinks can help restore fluid balance effectively.

Beverages to Avoid During Pneumonia

While some drinks can be beneficial, others can actually hinder your recovery. It is important to know what to steer clear of.

Caffeinated Drinks: Caffeine, found in coffee and some teas, is a diuretic, meaning it increases urination and can lead to dehydration.
Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages also have a dehydrating effect and can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics and other medications prescribed by your doctor.
Sugary Drinks: High-sugar sodas, juices, and sweetened drinks can contribute to inflammation and suppress the immune system, making it harder for your body to heal.
Excess Dairy: While the claim that dairy increases mucus is not scientifically proven for everyone, some people find it thickens their mucus, making it harder to manage. If you notice this effect, it's best to limit dairy until you feel better.

Comparison of Beneficial Drinks for Pneumonia


Drink Type	Primary Benefit	Additional Benefits	Notes
Water	Hydration, Thins Mucus	Simple, Gentle on Stomach	Crucial baseline; consume generously.
Herbal Tea	Soothes Throat, Loosens Mucus	Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant	Choose varieties like peppermint, ginger, or turmeric.
Broth/Soup	Hydration, Nutrient Intake	Electrolytes, Provides Calories	Excellent when appetite is poor.
Low-Sugar Juice	Vitamin C, Antioxidants	Provides Energy	Stick to low-sugar, preferably fresh options.
Coconut Water	Electrolyte Replenishment	Natural Hydration	Good alternative to commercial sports drinks.

When to Contact a Doctor

While proper hydration is an important part of home care, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have been diagnosed with pneumonia, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions, which may include taking antibiotics for bacterial pneumonia. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or a fever that does not improve with medication.

Conclusion: The Best Thing to Drink When You Have Pneumonia

Ultimately, the best thing to drink when you have pneumonia is a variety of fluids to ensure you stay well-hydrated. Water should be your main focus, supplemented with warm herbal teas and nutrient-rich broths to soothe symptoms and provide additional benefits. Avoiding dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine is just as important. Always prioritize what your doctor recommends and use these dietary tips as a supportive measure in your recovery. By maintaining proper fluid intake, you give your body the best possible chance to fight off the infection and recover faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that milk increases mucus production. However, some people may find that dairy products cause their mucus to feel thicker. If you notice this effect, it may be best to limit dairy intake, though milk can be a source of nutrients for those with a low appetite.

It is best to avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee and black tea while recovering from pneumonia. Caffeine acts as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration. Instead, opt for decaffeinated herbal teas or water to stay properly hydrated.

Electrolyte-enhanced beverages can be helpful if you are experiencing severe dehydration. However, many sports drinks are high in sugar, which can increase inflammation. Opt for low-sugar options like coconut water or homemade electrolyte solutions instead.

No, you should not drink alcohol while recovering from pneumonia. Alcohol is dehydrating and can interact with antibiotics and other medications prescribed by your doctor, negatively impacting your recovery.

While individual needs vary, a pneumonia patient should aim for at least 1.5 to 2 litres of fluids per day unless a doctor advises otherwise. Drinking plenty of water and other beneficial fluids is key to thinning mucus and staying hydrated.

Warm drinks like herbal tea and broth are particularly effective as they can help soothe a sore throat and chest discomfort while also helping to loosen thick mucus. However, staying hydrated with any fluid, including water at a temperature you prefer, is important for overall recovery.

Yes, chicken soup is an excellent choice. It provides warmth and hydration, while also offering nutrients and electrolytes. The steam from the soup can help clear nasal passages and ease congestion.