What should you not eat when you have a cold?

Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
Updated on May 06, 2025
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After catching a cold, one should generally avoid eating spicy, greasy, or cold foods such as chili peppers, ice cream, and seafood, and should not drink coffee or strong tea. Avoid greasy foods and try to eat more light fruits and vegetables. It is important to keep warm, avoid catching a cold again, and rest well. If one has a cold due to wind-heat, one should not eat heaty foods, commonly including citrus fruits and lamb. If it is a cold due to wind-cold, then one should avoid cold foods such as beer and watermelon.

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Written by An Yong Peng
Pulmonology
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How long will a cold with a runny nose last?

The symptoms of a cold with a runny nose generally recover within seven to ten days. A runny nose during a cold is usually caused by a viral infection. For viral colds, the condition of the patient is generally self-limiting. The natural course of the illness is usually seven to ten days, so the symptoms of a runny nose usually recover within this timeframe. However, for patients with a cold, there is often also a symptom of coughing. Although in most cases, the cough also eases within seven to ten days, some patients with colds may experience persistent coughing symptoms that can even last for one to two months. This condition is referred to as post-cold cough or post-infectious cough.

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How to physically reduce fever when having a cold?

There are many methods of physical cooling in clinical practice. The most commonly used is to choose warm water, or to wipe areas such as the palms, soles, neck, and chest with alcohol. It should be noted that infants should not use alcohol. You can also drink more ginger sugar water or scallion water, or use cool towels, ice packs, etc., to apply cold compresses to the forehead. These can achieve the effect of physically reducing fever. Be sure to drink plenty of water and measure the temperature again two hours later. If the fever does not ease, it is necessary to use medication in a timely manner.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
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Symptoms of a baby's cold and fever

Infant colds and fevers are categorized as respiratory infections, typically caused by pathogens such as respiratory viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, and chlamydia. The initial symptoms usually manifest as varying degrees of fever. Subsequent general symptoms include appearing slightly less lively than usual, possibly accompanied by a reduced appetite, nausea, and even abdominal discomfort. The third category of symptoms affects the upper respiratory tract, commonly presenting as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and in some cases, coughing and excessive phlegm.

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What should I do if I catch a cold during the postpartum confinement period?

If a pregnant woman catches a cold and it is not very severe, conservative treatment can be considered. On one hand, medication can be taken under the guidance of an obstetrician. On the other hand, during the early stages of a cold, one can drink more water and keep warm. Maintain good air circulation indoors. If symptoms are severe, oral administration of medicines such as Xiao Chai Hu Granules and Bai Lan Gen Granules can help alleviate the condition. In terms of diet, it should be light and easy to digest. Avoid crowded public places, wear masks when going out, and reduce contact with people who have colds to cut off the source of infection. Once a pregnant woman catches a cold, it is crucial to rest. Do not overwork, drink plenty of water, and avoid certain foods. Seek medical attention in a timely manner and follow the doctor's instructions for medication, without self-medicating.

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Can I eat watermelon if I have a cold and cough?

When suffering from a cold and cough, it is appropriate to eat some watermelon as it contains a lot of water which can help replenish the fluids the body needs. It also has a soothing effect on the throat. However, be careful not to eat too much because watermelon has a high sugar content. Excessive sugar intake can exacerbate coughing by increasing phlegm. Additionally, watermelon has cooling properties, so consuming too much can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Patients with weak spleen and stomach, already having frail gastrointestinal systems, may experience discomfort from consuming too much watermelon. It is recommended to eat moderate amounts and maintain a light diet, drink plenty of water, and consume more fruits like apples, pears, or grapefruits which are more suitable. It is crucial to actively cooperate with medical treatment during a cold and cough to alleviate symptoms.