A sore throat is nothing but inflammation of pharynx which is the tube that extends from the back of the mouth to the esophagus. Sore throats, while very common, can be painful and uncomfortable. Symptoms of a sore throat include difficulty swallowing, redness of tonsils and throat, swollen tonsils, pain while talking, fever etc. Here is a list of foods that help soothe sore throats:
- WARM MASHED POTATOES
Mashed potatoes make a great breakfast/meal food when you have a sore throat since it does not add on to the difficulty with swallowing nor does it cause much pain thanks to the soft texture. The warmth in fact soothes the throat and makes it heal faster.
- BANANA SMOOTHIE
Make a smoothie using banana and blueberries. Bananas are soft and easy to swallow, and are loaded with fibre whereas blueberries are loaded with tannins. This can help soothe the sore throat. You can also try some hot smoothie recipes mentioned here >>
- EGGS
Scrambled eggs make a great remedy for sore throat since it contains omega 3 fatty acids which helps reduce the inflammation in throat. On the other hand, scrambled eggs have a soft texture that calm the inflamed skin.
- POMEGRANATE TEA
Pomegranate contains tannins that soothe sore throat. To make tea, peel the pomegranate and collect its rinds. Boil the rinds for 15 minutes or so in 3-4 cups of water (time and water amount can be adjusted to your preferences.) Drink the tea warm. You can get the rinds in advance, and then dry them in an airtight jar away from direct sunlight. That way, you have them on hand for when you get sick. More: Tea recipes for sore throat >>
- APPLE CIDER VINEGAR DRINK
Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial properties. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one teaspoon each of lemon juice and little honey to a cup of warm water and drink it slowly. Do this two or three times a day. More: Home remedies to get rid of strep throat >>
- GOLDEN MILK
Golden milk is nothing but turmeric milk and is long known for its throat soothing properties in Ayurveda. You need to add 1 teaspoon turmeric to 1 glass of milk and simmer it n low flame. Strain it and your golden milk is ready. Consume it before bedtime and in the morning. More: Detailed recipe on golden milk along with benefits here >>
- LENTIL SPINACH SOUP
A warm lentil spinach soup can help ease throat pain and inflammation. Saute onions, chilli powder and turmeric in oil until golden brown. Add pre-washed lentils in it and cook until they become pale yellow in colour. Add salt and tomatoes and soak everything in spinach water on low flame. Let it cook until the lentils swell. Add spinach paste and stir. To may add little water too to adjust the consistency of soup. Serve warm. More: Detailed recipes >>
- CAYENNE TEA
Cayenne is known for its healing properties and cayenne tea can be consumed in care of sore throats, cough, etc. To make tea, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to 1 cup of boiling water. Stir in the honey, and wait until the mixture is warm-but not hot-before drinking throughout the day as needed. Make sure to stir it frequently, as the cayenne tends to settle. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the pepper to as little as 1/8 of a teaspoon.
- HOT CHOCOLATE SMOOTHIE
Dark chocolate has antioxidants which can help reduce the inflammation in the throat. Make sure you use dark chocolate in this recipe. Pour milk into a blender. Add in dark raw cocoa powder, vanilla extract and 1 banana. Cover and blend on low for a few seconds, then increase speed to high and blend until thoroughly mixed.
- CHICKEN STOCK
Chicken stock or broth is beneficial for any respiratory infections including sore throats. To make chicken stock, boil chicken in plain water until it is completely cooked and soft. Add tomatoes, onions, spices including turmeric and salt. You may add any more spices you wish and let it simmer for some more time. Your chicken stock is ready. More: Benefits of chicken stock.