Tonsillitis, or inflamed tonsils, makes eating and drinking uncomfortable, often leading to a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Choosing appropriate foods and drinks can alleviate discomfort and support recovery. These dietary suggestions are general guidance and not a substitute for medical advice.
Easy-to-Swallow Foods
When tonsils are swollen, choose soft foods that require minimal chewing and are gentle on the throat. Smooth textures are less likely to irritate inflamed tonsils. Nutrient-rich options also support healing.
Mashed potatoes, soft and creamy, are a suitable choice, enhanced with butter or broth. Lightly scrambled eggs provide easily digestible protein for recovery. Applesauce and mashed bananas offer natural sweetness and nutrients without irritation.
Warm, soft cereals like oatmeal or porridge are soothing, flavored with honey or fruit. Cooked vegetables, such as well-boiled carrots, potatoes, or pumpkin, become tender and provide essential vitamins. Soft pasta or plain yogurt are also good options, offering nutrients while being easy to consume.
Soothing Drinks
Maintaining hydration is important for swollen tonsils, keeping the throat moist and aiding recovery. Both warm and cool liquids offer comfort and relief.
Warm, clear broths, like chicken or vegetable, are hydrating and provide nutrients without irritating the throat. Warm decaffeinated teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, soothe the throat with anti-inflammatory properties. Adding honey to warm tea can further coat and relieve irritation, though it should not be given to children under one year old.
For a cooling effect, ice water, ice chips, and popsicles can temporarily numb the throat and reduce swelling. Smoothies, made with soft ingredients like bananas and yogurt, offer hydration and nutrition. Diluted, non-acidic fruit juices like apple juice are also good choices for hydration.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
Avoid certain foods and beverages during recovery, as they can exacerbate discomfort and irritate swollen tonsils. These items can inflame sensitive throat tissue.
Acidic foods and drinks, such such as citrus fruits and their juices, tomatoes, and vinegar-based products, can cause a burning sensation and irritate inflamed tissues. Their acids can strip away the throat’s protective mucus layer, increasing discomfort.
Spicy foods, containing capsaicin found in hot peppers, chili, or strong seasonings, can activate pain receptors and intensify throat burning. They can also increase mucus production, making swallowing more difficult.
Hard and crunchy foods, including chips, crackers, dry toast, raw vegetables, and nuts, can scrape or irritate inflamed tonsils. These rough textures can worsen pain and potentially cause further damage to the sensitive throat lining.
Extremely hot or very cold beverages can also aggravate discomfort. While some find cool drinks soothing, excessively hot liquids can further irritate an inflamed throat. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages should also be avoided, as they are diuretics that lead to dehydration, drying the throat and worsening symptoms.