can i eat shrimp when i have cough

Can I Eat Shrimp When I Have a Cough?

Coughs and colds are never fun to deal with. When you’re under the weather, eating can seem like a chore. But good nutrition is important for supporting your immune system and getting better faster. If you love shrimp, you may be wondering if you can still enjoy it when sick with a cough. Here’s what you need to know about eating shrimp when you have a cough, including tips for preparing it safely and healthfully.

How Shrimp Can Help When You’re Sick

Shrimp packs a nutritional punch, supplying key nutrients that provide multiple benefits when you’re fighting off a cough or cold:

• Protein – Shrimp is an excellent source of protein, providing around 20 grams per 3-ounce serving. Protein provides the building blocks your body needs to create antibodies and cells to battle illness.

• Selenium – Shrimp has one of the highest selenium contents of any food. This mineral supports immune function and protects cells from damage.

• Zinc – Shrimp also supplies zinc, which can reduce cold duration and severity. Zinc boosts immune cell activity.

• Vitamin B12 – Shrimp delivers a day’s worth of vitamin B12 in just 3 ounces. B12 forms red blood cells and helps reduce fatigue.

• Omega-3s – Shrimp contains anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA that can soothe coughs.

• Calcium – The edible shell provides calcium for immune regulation and lung health.

With this stellar nutrition profile, enjoying shrimp in moderation can be beneficial when you’re under the weather.

Potential Drawbacks of Eating Shrimp with a Cough

While shrimp can provide key nutrients, there are some potential drawbacks to keep in mind when you have a cough:

• Shellfish allergies – Those with shellfish allergies need to avoid shrimp entirely to prevent worsening cough symptoms through an allergic response.

• Histamine content – Some people experience worse congestion from seafood high in histamines like shrimp, crab, tuna and mackerel.

• Irritation – The legs, shell and texture of shrimp may irritate cough symptoms for those with sore throats or sensitive respiratory tracts.

• Difficulty swallowing – Coughs can make eating difficult. Shrimp may be hard to swallow for those with severe coughs.

• Food safety – Proper cooking and handling is important since illness weakens immunity. Undercooked shrimp risks foodborne infection.

So while shrimp offers nutritional benefits, it also comes with some cautions to keep in mind. Pay attention to your individual response.

Tips for Safely Consuming Shrimp with a Cough

If you choose to eat shrimp while sick, follow these tips to reduce risks:

• Cook thoroughly to 145°F. This kills any lingering bacteria or viruses. Avoid raw or undercooked shrimp.

• Remove shells before eating to lower irritation. Devein shrimp as well.

• Choose mild seasonings like lemon, parsley and dill. Skip spicy rubs or sauces.

• Cut shrimp into bitesize pieces or shred into salads. This makes shrimp easier to chew and swallow.

• Peel and devein before cooking if you have mouth or throat pain. Skip the shell entirely.

• Avoid dunking shrimp in thick, creamy dips or dressings. Opt for brothy soup bases instead.

• Prevent cross-contamination by disinfecting hands, surfaces, utensils after preparation.

Following basic food safety guidelines helps protect you from illness while enjoying shrimp’s nutrition.

Healthy Ways to Eat Shrimp with a Cough

Focus on gentle cooking methods and liquid-based dishes. Here are some shrimp recipe ideas ideal for coughs:

• Congee – This nourishing rice porridge popular in Asia often contains shrimp. It provides smooth comfort.

• Soup – Simmer shrimp in broth with veggies like bok choy, tomatoes, carrots and spinach. The steam can soothe sore throats.

• Shrimp salad – Toss cooked, peeled shrimp with lettuce, tomato, avocado and citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing mini-meal.

• Spring rolls – Wrapped in soft rice paper with herbs and vermicelli, these provide flavor without irritation.

• Shrimp toast – Minced shrimp and veggies on toast offer a crunchy texture contrast you can soften with broth for dipping.

• Ceviche – “Cook” raw shrimp by marinating in citrus juice. The acidity firms up the flesh sans heat.

• Sicilian shrimp – Sauté shrimp with garlic, white wine, tomatoes and oregano for a quick, aromatic dish.

With creative preparations, you can still enjoy shrimp’s benefits without aggravating cough discomfort.

The Bottom Line

While Claims that eating shrimp worsens coughs are unfounded, it does come with some cautions. Allergies, histamine content, textures and proper cooking technique all require consideration. But prepared with care, shrimp can provide key nutrients to help you recover. Listen to your body and focus on safety. Shrimp can be included as part of a balanced diet with a cough when handled properly. Don’t deprive yourself of the nutrition found in shrimp – just take the right precautions to avoid potential pitfalls.