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I am a 26-year-old woman. I am presently suffering from a cold. My friends say that one should avoid eating curd if they have a cough and cold. I usually eat curd rice with every meal. Should I avoid eating curd? What are the other foods that I should avoid? What foods should I include in my diet to get rid of a cold? Please help.
The query is answered by Neha Chandna, Dietician and Nutritionist.
It is best to avoid eating curd if you are suffering from a cough and cold as it might aggravate the condition. Although curd is easily digested and is rich in good bacteria, it is considered as mucus-forming food, which can trigger the production of mucus thereby worsening the cold. If you are prone to a cough and cold, it is advised to avoid eating curd, especially at night as it can cause Kapha. However, if you do not suffer from a cough and cold, then you can have curd rice or drink a glass of buttermilk at night. Here are things you should NOT DO when you have a cold.
As cold and cough can last for a few days, avoid eating curd for a week or till the time you have a cold. Also, stay away from other mucus-forming foods like processed foods and meat. It is also advised not to eat milk products like cheese, buttermilk and sweets (made from milk) as it might worsen the condition. Also, read about why taking antibiotics for cold and cough is a bad idea!
For a quick and effective relief from a cough and cold, up your intake of fresh vegetables and fruits and eat salad and steamed and stir-fried foods. Also, stay hydrated by increasing your intake of fruit juices and soups. If you have a severe cold, drink a glass of homemade Ayurvedic decoction made from honey, ginger, lemon juice, tulsi leaves, turmeric and water. This drink not only improves your immunity but also provides quick relief from cold. Here's more on naturopathy for cold and cough
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