Did you know that the average child gets colds approx. 8 to 10 times per year?
To keep your child comfortable during a cold, make sure they get plenty of rest and fluids. When your child has a cold, it's important to make sure they eat well & avoid certain foods to improve their immune system.
How to Feed a Baby when she/he is cold and coughing?
- Under six months: breast milk or adapted formula
- Over six months: small, frequent meals of easily digestible foods, no greasy or spicy foods
- Don't force baby to eat, offer foods they like
- Ensure hydration with water, soup, lukewarm fruit juices
- ORS if prescribed
- Home remedies like massage and steam may help
- Mindfulness of what you feed as loss of appetite can lead to dehydration and nausea.
Foods to Avoid During Cold and Cough
Foods to avoid during cold and cough in babies include:
- Cow's milk and dairy products: Cow's milk is difficult for babies to digest and can worsen their symptoms.
- Honey: Honey can contain bacteria that can cause botulism in infants, leading to potentially serious illness.
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits can be acidic and may irritate your baby's throat.
- Fried and greasy foods: These foods can be difficult to digest and may worsen symptoms like cough and congestion.
- Spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate your baby's throat and make symptoms worse.
- Processed and packaged foods: These foods may contain additives and preservatives that can be harmful to your baby's health.
- Carbonated drinks: Carbonated drinks can dehydrate your baby and may also irritate their throat.
Key points to remember
- Information provided is for guidance only, not a substitute for medical advice
- Consult a pediatrician if symptoms persist
- Seek medical attention if baby is dehydrated or wheezing or ear infection
- Introduce each food separately and watch for allergies
- Honey, milk, salt, and sugar should be avoided for babies under one year
- Always consult a pediatrician before adding new foods to your baby's diet
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