2) Honey Honey has been a mainstay in medicinal remedies since ancient times, and for good reason. Modern science has shown Manuka honey to be effective against a variety of infections, both bacterial and viral, including those that cause the common cold, as well as some Strep species, says Dr. Li. Just don't go overboard: In larger doses, [its sugar content] can suppress the immune system from doing its job, she says. ValentynVolkov - Getty Images
3) Yogurt Yogurt is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, as well as probiotic bacteria, the beneficial germs that support immune function and keep harmful germs from taking hold in our bodies, says Dr. Li. She says there might be a link between yogurt consumption and reduced rates of respiratory infections and ear pain. Beyond that, the cool and soft textures of yogurt make it an easy food to swallow when nothing else soothes, says Dr. Li. fortyforks - Getty Images
4) Mashed Potatoes Leave the skin on the potatoes while mashing for a rich source of magnesium, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which all support a strong immune system. A word to the wise: Make sure your mashed potatoes aren't too hot, since that could irritate your throat even further, Dr. Favini says. Amarita - Getty Images
5) Eggs Eggs have a pretty innocuous texture, but preparing them scrambled makes them especially palatable. Whats more, Dr. Li says eggs are rich in minerals like zinc, iron, and selenium, as well as vitamin D and B12, which can help fend off the nasty infection thats causing your sore throat. inewsistock - Getty Images
6) Oatmeal In general the best foods to eat when you have a sore throat are foods with a soft texture, which won't further irritate your throat, says Dr. Favini. So yep, oatmeal definitely qualifies. Dr. Li says oatmeal is rich in magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants, which kickstart the bodys detoxification processes, then rid the body of waste and infection. samael334 - Getty Images
7) Ginger Ginger has been shown in lab experiments to have analgesic (pain-reducing), antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, says Dr. Li. It also appears to inhibit the growth of certain harmful strains of bacteria. In a study published in Nutrition Journal , the combination of ginger and honey proved to be more effective than either alone. Dr. Li adds that since many sore throats are accompanied by postnasal drip, which can irritate the stomach and induce nausea, gingers best established property, [which is] fending off nausea, is another compelling reason to give it a try. grafvision - Getty Images
8) Jell-O Dr. Li says that Jell-O is a decent option when you have a sore throat. Keep tabs on the sugar content, however, since high-sugar treats can suppress the immune system from fighting off infections or repairing damaged tissues, she says. instamatics - Getty Images
9) Smoothies Smoothies are a great way to pack in a whole salads worth of produce in a few sips. Dr. Li suggests sticking to ingredients like kale, celery, and berries, which are low in sugar and high in disease-fighting antioxidants. Instead of using orange juice as your base, use water along with a whole orange or tangerine, which contains insulin-regulating fiber, in addition to over a days worth of vitamin C. For people with sore throats from a viral infection, I often recommend a high dose of vitamin C of up to 3,000 milligrams daily to boost the immune system and help you recover more quickly, says Dr. Favini. Bonus points for extra crushed ice to soothe your throat even more. nerudol - Getty Images
10) Ice Cream Dr. Favini says cold foods like ice cream can be particularly good because they help soothe the sore throat and may even reduce the inflammation. Just remember not to go too buck wild with the sugar. MmeEmil - Getty Images