Tonsillitis troubles? Here are 7 foods that can help relieve symptoms

08/17/2020 / By Janine Acero

Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils — a set of lymphoid organs in the throat that play an important role in the immune system. The tonsils are the “first responders” to viral or bacterial infections.

Tonsillitis causes swelling and pain in the tonsils and throat, and is sometimes accompanied by fever and chills. It becomes painful to swallow when suffering from tonsillitis, which makes eating and drinking difficult.

Still, nutrition is essential to promote healing and reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis. Here are seven foods that are ideal to eat when you have tonsillitis.

1. Smoothies

Soothe your throat with a smoothie made with unsweetened yogurt and fresh fruits like berries and bananas. You can also eat some ice cream for throat relief.

2. Warm tea

A warm — but not hot — cup of tea is a great natural remedy for sore throat caused by tonsillitis. Green tea is rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and help boost immunity. You can drink green tea with lemon, basil, ginger or honey for a nutrient boost.

3. Fruits

Fruits are natural sources of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, all of which can help reduce inflammation of the tonsils and help boost immunity.

Pomegranates are superfruits that promote quick recovery thanks to their abundance in antioxidants. Bananas, on the other hand, are soft fruits that are packed with nutrients. The fruit is also easy to swallow, even with a sore throat.

Figs are a natural source of phenolic compounds that contain anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe swelling and pain in the tonsils.

Baked fruits such as baked apples and baked pears are also good choices to eat while suffering from tonsillitis.

4. Ginger and honey

This superfood combination has been used to heal sore throat and dry cough for eons. Ginger has a long history of being used as natural medicine, thanks to its abundance in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, flavonoids, tannins and vitamin C, among others. Honey, on the other hand, is a well-known cough remedy. It is rich in antioxidants that help with quick recovery, and it also helps induce a good night’s sleep.

5. Broth and soups

Hot foods and drinks are difficult to consume when you have tonsillitis, but warm foods and drinks can bring relief to a sore throat. Have a warm bowl of soup with veggies and herbs, which contain nutrients that can help heal inflammation and bring relief from the general run-down feeling that comes with tonsillitis. (Related: Better than bone broth? Many health gurus are switching to mushroom broth.)

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is a staple in both food and medicine. Its main active ingredient, curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that work at the molecular level. That said, curcumin is not easily absorbed by the body; taking it with black pepper can enhance its absorption.

To relieve tonsillitis with turmeric, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of milk, and mix three to four freshly pounded black pepper seeds. Simmer the turmeric milk for two to three minutes and drink it warm.

7. Sage

Sage is a green aromatic herb that is loaded with antioxidant, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. It is used as a remedy for sore throat, cough, bad breath and other oral health problems. Sage is available fresh, dried or in oil form.

Hydration is also critical for recovering from tonsillitis. Choose cold or warm beverages such as ice water, clear juices or chicken broth. Avoid piping hot beverages that can further irritate your sore throat, as well as acidic juices.

Learn more about natural remedies for tonsillitis at Remedies.news.

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