Bronchitis is a mostly viral disease, common in autumn and winter. Lemon, honey, propolis, thyme, onion… What to eat when you have bronchitis? What foods help fight infection? Which herbal teas to drink? What foods to avoid?
Frequent in autumn and winter, bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchi, most often viral, which generally heals in about ten days. “To my knowledge, there is no food that gives off bronchi or who helps to thin secretionsimmediately indicates Dr. Nocent-Ejnaini, Pneumologist-Allergologist at the Basque Coast Hospital Center in Bayonne, member of the College of Pneumologists of General Hospitals. There is therefore, in terms of food, no recommendation or restriction. Nevertheless, we can consume things that will be able to strengthen the immune defenses as propolis or some plants which will alleviate certain symptoms such as thyme or products like honey. Consuming it can thus do good, but that is not what will make it possible to cure“, she continues.
1. Propolis, effective antiviral
Propolis is a substance collected by bees from the buds and bark of certain trees. Rich in antiviral compounds, it is known to strengthen immune defenses and relieve sore throats. Note that its use is not insignificant and that it is not recommended for children under 3 years old.
2. Honey, soothes the throat
the Honey is a antiviral and an effective antiseptic which would act as a protective balm around the throat. Among thethe best honey for the throat: the honey of thymeeucalyptus honey, fir honey or lavender honey.
3. Thyme relieves cough
Thyme is a plant that would have virtues on the ENT sphere. “In infusionseveral times a day, it could do good to relieve sore throats and coughing fits, but it is not this plant that will cure bronchitis“, says our interlocutor.
4. Turmeric, a good antiseptic
Turmeric is an effective antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. It can be used in powder, sprinkled on our dishes, but also in infusion or decoction.
5. Lemon, for immune defenses
Lemon, rich in vitamin C, could intervene in the defense against viral infections, such as bronchitis. To consume why not in juice in hot water with a spoonful of honey.
6. Ginger, a good antipyretic
the ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It would be effective in stimulating the immune system and would help fight against fever (antipyretic action).
7. Red fruits, rich in vitamin C
In general, a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables allows you to benefit from all the nutrients and vitamins necessary to improve your immunity. “All fruits are indicated in case of bronchitis“, reminds the doctor. Particularly those which are rich in vitamin C like red fruits (blackcurrants, blueberries, strawberries), kiwi, lemon, grapefruit or orange.
8. Onion, grandmother’s remedy?
Among grandmother’s recipes, we can read that the onion would be effective against bronchial ailments. “Eating it can’t hurt, but its effectiveness has not been demonstrated in scientific studies”makes a point of specifying our interlocutor.
What herbal teas to drink in case of bronchitis?
“In case of bronchitis, it is advisable to stay hydrated (at least 1.5 l of water per day), in order to make the secretions more fluid and to facilitate their expectoration“, indicates our expert. You can also drink thyme herbal teasknown to soothe coughs, based eucalyptus (an antiviral and an expectorant) or based on laurel which would reduce the inflammation of the throat.
What foods should you avoid with bronchitis?
“There are no dietary restrictions for bronchitis. In other words, there are no harmful foods. If we have a fever, we feel tired, we tend to have less appetiteso it is better to eat foods that make us happy“underlines our interlocutor.
Thank you to Dr Cécilia Nocent-Ejnaini, Pneumologist-Allergologist at the Basque Coast Hospital Center in Bayonne, member of the College of Pneumologists of General Hospitals.