When experiencing a sore throat, the burning and discomfort it induces can impede drinking or eating. Selecting warm drinks and foods can alleviate a sore throat. Opting for soft foods may prevent further irritation. Read below to find the best foods for sore throat and the foods you should avoid.

Foods and Drinks To Have

When you have a sore throat, eating soft and easily swallowable foods is usually safe. The soft texture of these foods helps minimize throat irritation. Additionally, consuming warm foods and beverages can also help soothe your throat.

You may want to eat the following:

• Warm, cooked pasta, including macaroni and cheese
• Warm oatmeal, cooked cereal, or grits
• Gelatin desserts
• Plain yogurts or yogurts with pureed fruits
• Cooked vegetables
• Fruit or vegetable smoothies
• Mashed potatoes
• Broth and cream-based soups
• Milk
• Turmeric Latte
• Green Tea 
• Chamomile
• Ginger Tea
• Non-acidic juices, such as grape or apple juice
• Scrambled or hard-boiled eggs
• Popsicles

Consuming these items will nourish you without further irritating your sore throat.

Foods And Drinks To Avoid

Avoid foods that could further irritate your throat or are challenging to swallow. These foods might include:

• Crackers
• Crusty bread
• Spicy seasonings and sauces
• Sodas
• Coffee
• Alcohol
• Dry snack foods, such as potato chips, pretzels, or popcorn
• Fresh, raw vegetables
• Acidic fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, tomatoes, and grapefruits

In some individuals, dairy products may thicken or increase mucus production, leading to more frequent throat clearing, which can exacerbate a sore throat.

Home Remedies For Sore Throats

Other home remedies for sore throats include:

• Sucking on lozenges or hard candy to keep the throat moist.
• Drinking plenty of fluids.
• Using over-the-counter (OTC) throat sprays.
• Using OTC pain relievers like Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) as directed.

It’s important to see a healthcare provider for a sore throat if it’s severe, not improving after a few days, or if accompanied by a high fever or swollen glands. These symptoms could indicate a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, which may require antibiotics.

Summary

When dealing with a sore throat, consuming soft, cool, or warm foods can be soothing. However, acidic, spicy, hard, or crunchy foods may exacerbate the pain, so it’s best to avoid them. Opting for soups, broths, popsicles, and other soft foods can provide relief. Additionally, using a humidifier in your bedroom and keeping a glass of water nearby can help alleviate overnight throat dryness.