Throat infection or pharyngitis results from infection by viruses, bacteria or fungi. The inside of our throat gets irritated due to the mucous produced. It clogs up the throat and nose. A weak immune system and allergy from some foods are common causes of throat infection. Besides these, environmental irritants, smoking, excessive shouting and allergies can cause throat infection.
In most cases, throat infections go away on their own without medical intervention, especially when it is caused by virus. But when throat infection is caused by bacteria, it has to be treated with antibiotics. The common throat infection symptoms are pain while swallowing food, red swollen tonsils, white patches on the throat, fever and headache. You can prevent throat infection and avoid the discomforts associated with it by following a well-balanced and strict diet.
When you suffer from frequent throat infections, it means your immune system is weak. Boosting the immune system by following a well-balanced diet, taking proper rest and doing regular exercise can help to prevent recurring throat infection.
Diet Tips for Preventing Throat Infection
Consume Foods Rice In Vitamins And Beta Carotene
Boost your immune function by eating lot of fruits, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, nuts etc. in your diet. Supplement your diet with vitamin C, E and beta-carotene. Beta-carotene which is a pro vitamin A can be changed into vitamin A when required by our body.
Vitamin A is needed to generate antibodies and also helps in the functioning of mucous membranes. Vitamin C is necessary for strengthening white blood cells which helps the body to fight against infection. Vitamin E works as an effective antioxidant that aids in integrity of membrane cell and proper functioning of immune cell.
Probiotics
For preventing the growth of bacteria and to maintain the health of gastrointestinal tract, probiotics can do a lot. This way they help to strengthen the immune system and alleviate allergic condition.
Natural Antibiotics
There are natural antibiotic that can boost your immune system. Allicin, a garlic extract is one such antibiotic that can very effectively stimulate the cells, detoxify carcinogens and kill pathogens by penetrating the cell walls of microorganisms. By invading the cell walls, it disturbs their biochemical balance and hinders their activity.
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Avoid Sugary and Processed Foods
For preventing throat infections, avoid sugary and processed foods as well as saturated fats. They make our body susceptible to allergies and infection.
Avoid Oily And Spicy Foods
Restrict yourself from eating spicy and oily food as they aggravate the symptoms of throat infection. Instead eat lots of green and yellow vegetables and raw fruits, seeds and nuts.
They will empower your immune system to fight harmful virus and bacteria as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals, calcium, fibre and iron. Eat lot of green salads, steamed vegetables and hot vegetable soups. To season your soups and salads, use beneficial herbs like ginger, garlic, black pepper, cinnamon and basil leaves.
Avoid Hard Drinks
If you suffer from frequent throat infections, you need to avoid alcoholic beverages like wine, beer and hard liquor to prevent recurrent attacks. Instead drink non-citrus fruit juices like apple juice. Also refrain yourself from drinking cold drinks, cold water, ice creams etc. Drink adequate water (8-10 glass) throughout the day. Drink warm milk with a pinch of turmeric and herbal teas.
Gargle With Salt Water
If you experience slightest irritation in your throat, start gargling every few hours with warm salt water. This will help to sooth your throat. Adding ginger to your tea can also help prevent throat infection. You can also prepare a soothing drink by combining ginger drops, lemon and honey. Their antioxidant properties can help to prevent throat infection.