You may be one among the many that deal with a sore throat quite often. A sore throat usually develops due to a viral infection such as a common cold or flu (influenza). It may also be a symptom of bacterial infections, allergies, or COVID-19. 

Recognisable due to pain, scratchiness, or irritation, a sore throat makes it difficult to swallow, and is more painful when swallowing. Thus, it may reduce your appetite and food intake. However, it is important to eat nutritious food so that you can recover faster. 

Let’s have a look at the foods that you can eat to heal a sore throat faster and home remedies for a sore throat. 

What to Eat And Drink When You Have a Sore Throat

1. Bananas

Banana is not only a soft, non-acidic fruit that is easy to swallow when you have a sore throat, it is also high in fibre, vitamin B6, potassium, and flu-fighting vitamin C that help your body to fight the infection causing the sore throat.

2. Honey

Honey is a good remedy for wound healing and fighting inflammation, so your sore throat will soon feel better as the inflammation decreases. Drink honey in warm water or add it to your tea. 

3. Ginger 

Of course, one of the best ways to calm an irritated and itchy throat is a hot cup of tea with ginger. Ginger opens up your sinuses by clearing mucus from the nose and throat, and has anti-inflammatory properties that may help your sore throat by reducing the swelling and pain. Ginger can also be added to warm water and consumed. 

4. Turmeric

Turmeric is every mother’s go-to spice when dealing with a cold. Have a cup of warm haldi doodh (milk boiled with turmeric) or add a pinch of turmeric to a glass of warm water and drink it. Turmeric is known to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that may help in healing your sore throat. 

5. Scrambled Eggs

Eggs are an easy-to-digest, bland source of protein. Your body needs protein for tissue repair, and the soft and bland nature of scrambled eggs helps ease the pain of sore throat. 

6. Chicken Soup

For the soul! Research suggests that the combination of ingredients in chicken soup makes it rich in healthy fats and protein, which help your body repair itself. Chicken soup is full of hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredients and helps clear your nasal passages, thus helping you get rid of a sore throat.

7. Well-Cooked Vegetables

Cook vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, potatoes, etc. well so that they are easier to swallow, and still provide you with nutrients. At the same time, you can cook the vegetables with a carbohydrate source such as whole wheat pasta, oatmeal, or rice for a nutrient-rich meal that is light on your throat. 

Home Remedies For a Sore Throat

Try these home remedies to get relief from a sore throat:

1. Gargle with salt water to heal the swollen and inflamed tissues.

2. Stay hydrated by sipping on water or fresh fruit juices throughout the day. Eat warm soups and drink hot tea to feel better.

3. Suck on throat lozenges to gently numb the tissues in your throat and provide temporary relief from pain.

4. Use a humidifier when indoors to breathe in moist air. Dry air can make your sore throat feel worse.

5. Inhale steam by taking a hot shower or sitting in a steamy bathroom for a while. This will help reduce the swelling and irritation in your throat.

If the sore throat does not go away in 4 to 5 days, consult your doctor for a quick diagnosis to make sure your situation does not worsen. 


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.