In winter, the cold wind is howling, the warm temperature is hot, and the temperature difference between indoor and outdoor is large. This seasonal change often brings with it a range of health problems, the most common of which is coughing. Imagine a quiet night with a cough that breaks the silence and not only interferes with sleep, but can also cause chest pain and fatigue. Coughs are common in part because the airways become extremely sensitive due to dry air and cold air irritation.
Well, face this in the winter"Cough season"How can we effectively alleviate this problem?Start with your daily diet and explore some simple and effective dietary treatments.
With the onset of winter, many people find themselves more susceptible to symptoms of coughing. This is not accidental, but the result of a combination of environmental factors that are unique to winter.
The dry air in winter is one of the main causes of coughing. Dry air can irritate the respiratory tract, making the throat itchy and uncomfortable, which can trigger coughing. In fact, studies have shown that humidity indoors and outdoors is often much lower in winter than in other seasons, which has a direct impact on respiratory health. When low humidity, the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract become dry, reducing resistance to viruses and other disease-causing microorganisms.
The cold air itself is also a trigger. Cold air has a lower temperature and humidity, and when such air enters the body, it causes the airways to constrict, leading to coughing. This reaction is especially noticeable when there is a sudden inhalation of cold air outside.
In addition, winter is also the season of flu and colds. These respiratory illnesses are often accompanied by cough symptoms, and the virus spreads more easily due to increased indoor activity and reduced air circulation.
Allergies should also be taken into account. Although spring is the main season for allergies, the closed environment in winter often hides allergens, such as dust mites and pet dander, which can cause coughing.
Cough in winter, mostly caused by cold air and dryness in the room. During this season, especially for middle-aged and elderly people, it is especially important to maintain respiratory health. The following three easy-to-make remedies are designed to moisten the lungs and relieve cough and bring warmth to winter.
"Moisturizing and quenching thirst" white fungus pear soup
White fungus and Sydney pear, natural moisturizing products. Tremella fungus is rich in plant gum, which can moisturize yin and dryness;Sydney pears have a cooling and antipyretic effect. The combined white fungus pear soup is not only sweet, but also a good remedy for lung protection in winter. When making, soak the white fungus and tear it into small pieces, cut the pear into pieces, add an appropriate amount of water and rock sugar, and simmer until the white fungus is soft and glutinous. This soup is suitable for dry cough with no phlegm or little phlegm and sticky, and is consumed regularly to effectively relieve dry throat and mild cough.
"Warm up and ward off the cold" honey ginger tea
Ginger has been known as "dampness and cold medicine" since ancient times, and honey can moisten the throat and relieve cough. Honey ginger tea, made by combining fresh ginger slices with honey, can both warm up and suppress coughs. Simply put a few slices of ginger in a cup, add hot water to soak, and add a spoonful of honey when the water temperature is suitable. This drink is especially effective for cold-induced coughs, especially for those who feel chills and have a sore throat when coughing.
"Nourish the lungs and replenish qi" pumpkin porridge
Pumpkin, rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, can enhance immunity and has a good protective effect on the respiratory tract. Making pumpkin into porridge is not only easy to digest, but also effective in nourishing the lungs. Pumpkin is diced and cooked into porridge with rice, which is both simple and delicious. This porridge is suitable for those who have a poor appetite or need a gentle diet, especially during the dry winter months, to provide the body with the nutrients and water it needs.
There are a few key factors to be aware of when trying the recommended dietary remedies to ensure maximum health outcomes while avoiding unnecessary health risks. First, consider the individual's constitution and possible food allergies. For example, people with allergies to honey or seafood should avoid dietary remedies that contain these ingredients. One study showed that more than 10% of adults had a mild allergic reaction to at least one food.
Maintaining proper humidity indoors is essential for relieving dry throats and coughs. In winter, the humidity of the air decreases, making the respiratory tract more prone to dryness, leading to worsening coughing。Using a humidifier or placing a basin of water in your home can effectively increase indoor humidity. According to an environmental study, keeping indoor humidity at 40%-60% can significantly reduce respiratory diseases.
Moderate exercise is also an important way to improve respiratory health. Regular gentle exercise, such as walking or yoga, can boost lung function and the immune system. A study in middle-aged and older adults in the United States found that 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week significantly improved respiratory health.
While dietary remedies can help relieve cough, if symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention. Chronic cough can be a sign of a more serious health problem, such as asthma, pneumonia or heart disease. According to the World Health Organization, chronic respiratory diseases are one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide.