Are Cooling or Warm Foods Best for Child's Fever, Cold, and Cough?

Published on, 16 April, 2024. Answered by Dr. Denis Katundu and Verified by Dr.Galen Team

Patient Question

Hello Doctor,

Is it better to give my 4-year-old, who recently had watery eyes (possibly due to hot weather) followed by fever and a cold, cooling foods like cucumber, curd, and coconut water, or should I opt for hot foods like a homemade tonic with herbs to help alleviate the cold symptoms? He tends to have colds frequently but rarely coughs.

Answered by Dr. Denis Katundu

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.

Hydration and Cooling Foods:

1. Emphasize the importance of keeping the child hydrated.

2. Recommend cooling foods like cucumber, curd, and coconut water to soothe the throat and reduce discomfort.

Warm, Soothing Foods:

Suggest warm, soothing foods such as homemade soups to help reduce congestion and promote healing.

Monitoring Symptoms:

1. Advise closely monitoring the child's symptoms for any worsening or lack of improvement.

2. Stress the need to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or intensify.

Thanks