What fruits can't children eat when they have a cough?

Children should not eat cold fruits such as pears, watermelons and persimmons when they have a cough, as they may aggravate the cold symptoms of the respiratory tract. Although citrus fruits such as oranges and tangerines are rich in vitamin C, excessive consumption may irritate the pharyngeal mucosa and increase sputum secretion. Parents should choose warm or neutral fruits to help their children recover.

1. Fruits that are not suitable for consumption

Cold fruits such as pears, watermelons and persimmons have the effect of clearing away heat and purging fire in traditional Chinese medicine theory, but for children with coughs, especially those with symptoms such as cold coughs with thin sputum and fear of cold, these fruits may aggravate the coldness of the lungs and are not conducive to recovery. Too many persimmons can also easily cause indigestion or itchy throats. Although acidic fruits such as citrus and oranges can supplement vitamins, some children have sensitive throats when coughing, and the acidic components may irritate the mucous membranes, making the cough symptoms more obvious. Fruits with high sugar content, such as bananas, are prone to produce more sputum in the body and also need to be consumed in small amounts.

2. Suitable fruits

For children with coughs, you can choose warm or neutral fruits, such as apples, grapes and longans. The pectin and dietary fiber in apples can help moisten the lungs and relieve coughs. Grapes are rich in antioxidants and can enhance children's immunity. These fruits should also be eaten in moderation, cut into pieces and peeled to avoid swallowing difficulties or discomfort in children.

3. Precautions for eating fruits

Try to avoid refrigerating fruits. Eating cold fruits in a cold environment may cause greater irritation. It is recommended to slice the fruits and let them warm up at room temperature before giving them to children. Steaming fruits, such as steamed apples and steamed pears, is a good way to make cold fruits suitable for coughing. Adding honey or rock sugar can help soothe the throat and relieve cough. If your child is allergic to certain fruits, such as citrus fruits, they should also avoid trying them.

When children have a cough, they should choose the right fruit based on their physical condition and avoid excessive intake of cold or irritating fruits. If necessary, consult a doctor or nutritionist to adjust the diet scientifically to help children recover faster.