Understanding Why Certain Sweets Can Help a Cough
When you have a cough, the primary goal of many remedies is to soothe the irritated throat and reduce the frequency of coughing. The effectiveness of certain sweets lies in their demulcent properties, which means they can coat the throat and provide a protective layer against irritation. This simple mechanical action can significantly calm the nerve endings that trigger the urge to cough. Additionally, some sweets contain ingredients with proven therapeutic benefits, such as antibacterial or anti-inflammatory compounds.
The Golden Standard: Honey
When considering what sweets can I eat during a cough, honey is often the first and best option that comes to mind. It has a long history as a home remedy, and modern science backs up its effectiveness. Honey’s natural antimicrobial properties can help fight infections, while its thick, syrupy consistency is perfect for coating and soothing an irritated throat. It can be consumed in various ways:
- A spoonful on its own: For direct, immediate relief.
- Mixed in warm tea: A classic and comforting remedy.
- As an ingredient in homemade lozenges: Combined with other beneficial ingredients like lemon and ginger.
The Unexpected Relief: Dark Chocolate
Research has shown that dark chocolate may be a surprisingly effective cough suppressant. A key compound found in cocoa, theobromine, has been found to suppress vagal nerve activity, which is responsible for triggering coughs. The rich, thick, and viscous nature of melting dark chocolate also provides a potent demulcent effect, coating the throat more effectively than some traditional syrups. It is important to note that hot chocolate is less effective, as it does not coat the throat for a sufficient duration. Sucking on a piece of high-quality dark chocolate is the recommended method.
The Spicy Soother: Ginger Candies
Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe an irritated respiratory tract. Sucking on ginger-infused hard candies or lozenges can provide a double benefit: the warming effect of the ginger combined with the soothing demulcent action of the candy itself. This can help calm an irritated throat and may help loosen mucus. Opt for natural ginger candies over those with artificial flavors for the best results.
The Cooling Comfort: Mentholated Sweets
Many medicated throat lozenges and cough drops contain menthol for its cooling and numbing effects. While menthol may not cure the underlying cause of the cough, it can provide significant, temporary relief by numbing the nerve endings that trigger the cough reflex. The prolonged sucking action also increases saliva production, helping to lubricate and moisturize a dry, scratchy throat.
Comparison of Soothing Sweets for Cough
| Sweet Type | Key Benefit | Method of Action | Best For | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honey | Antimicrobial, Coats Throat | Coats throat, reduces inflammation, fights infection | All cough types (age 1+) | Raw, unfiltered honey |
| Dark Chocolate | Cough Suppressant | Theobromine suppresses nerves, high viscosity | Dry, persistent cough | High cocoa content (70%+) |
| Ginger Candy | Anti-inflammatory, Expectorant | Reduces inflammation, helps thin mucus | Chesty, wet cough | Natural, high ginger content |
| Menthol Lozenge | Cooling, Numbing | Numb throat nerve endings, increases saliva | Sore throat, tickly cough | Natural menthol, minimal sugar |
Sweets to Avoid During a Cough
Just as some sweets can help, others can make your cough worse. It is advisable to avoid excessive consumption of simple sugars, especially those found in processed pastries, cakes, and fizzy drinks. Excessive sugar can suppress the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off the infection causing your cough. Additionally, cold sweets like ice cream or milkshakes can sometimes aggravate phlegm production in some individuals, though the cold sensation can feel temporarily soothing to a sore throat for others. It's best to pay attention to your body's reaction.
The Role of Sweet Foods in Your Recovery
Integrating the right kinds of sweets into your diet can be a helpful, and enjoyable, part of managing your cough symptoms. Beyond their direct soothing effects, these treats can also boost your morale during an unpleasant illness. The key is to prioritize those with natural, beneficial ingredients like honey and ginger over highly processed, sugary confections.
Conclusion
While a persistent cough warrants proper medical attention, strategic consumption of certain sweets can offer considerable relief. Honey and high-quality dark chocolate are supported by research for their unique cough-suppressing and throat-coating abilities. Ginger and mentholated sweets also provide targeted soothing effects. By being mindful of which sweets to choose and which to avoid, you can enjoy a comforting treat that also contributes positively to your recovery.
Sources
- [CDC - Honey for Cough] (https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-parents/honey-for-cough.html)
- Buzzinbeez.com. Honey for Cough: Does It Work & Which Types Help the Most? [https://buzzinbeez.com/honey-for-cough-does-it-work-which-types-help-the-most/]
- AJC.com. Chocolate is a better cough suppressant than medicine, study says. [https://www.ajc.com/news/world/chocolate-better-cough-suppressant-than-medicine-study-says/zVm2Wr0OvQOdaca9zSwYwJ/]
