The sugar and fats in sweets can potentially compromise your immune system, making them foods to avoid when you are recovering from a cold. When suffering from a cold, you should focus on healthy foods that boost your immune system and help your body recover.
Sugar and Immunity
According to Park Ridge Cardiology, sugar inhibits your immune system by blocking neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that fights invading germs and bacteria. When sugar blocks these, your normal white blood cell function is compromised and bacteria are able to enter your body without much resistance. When you are suffering from a cold, avoid foods that contain large amounts of sugar, as your body will be unable to fight off the germs as well.
Fats and Immunity
You also want to avoid sweets when you are recovering from a cold because the fats in sweets also compromise your immune system. The European Food Information Council reports that higher fat intake decreases your immune system response and your ability to fight infections. Sweets with whole-milk dairy products, like ice cream and cookies made with butter, contain large amounts of fat. This can compromise your immune system even when you are healthy, but especially when you are sick.
Foods to Avoid
You also should avoid other foods that contain fat and sugar. For example, do not drink soda or juices with added sugar. Also beware of fried and processed foods, which can be high in fat. Avoid other irritants that can compromise your immune system, including smoking and stress.
Foods to Eat
You should include plenty of healthy foods in your diet all the time, but even more so when you are fighting off a common cold. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich in antioxidants, substances that can help boost your immune system. Other good foods include chicken soup, oranges and foods with probiotics.
Conclusion
Since the sugar and fats in sweets can actually inhibit your immune system's response, you should avoid them when recovering from a cold. Instead, eat a healthy diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, natural whole grains and lean protein. A better diet helps you feel good all the time.
