Can My Children Consume Cold Foods or Drinks When They Have a Sore Throat or   Cough?
By Dr. Soo

When your child has a sore throat or cough, you may be unsure of what foods and drinks are safe for them to take. A very common question that many parents ask is:
“Can my child eat or drink cold things when they are coughing or their throat is sore?”

Some family members may say no. Others may say yes. Online advice is also mixed. So what’s the real answer?

What Causes Sore Throats and Coughs in Children?

Most of the time, sore throats and coughs in children are caused by viruses such as the flu or common cold. Other times, it could be due to tonsillitis (swelling of the tonsils), allergies, or even dry air.

A sore throat means the throat is red, swollen, and painful—especially when swallowing or talking.
A cough is the body’s way of clearing out mucus or irritants from the throat and chest.

Though these symptoms usually get better on their own, they can be very uncomfortable for your child in the meantime.

Can Cold Foods or Drinks Make It Worse?

Many people believe cold items make sore throats or coughs worse. Common sayings include:

• “Ice cream will make the throat swell more.”

• “Cold drinks cause phlegm.”

• “Cold foods make the cough last longer.”

The truth is: that there’s no strong medical evidence to support this. Cold or cool foods and drinks can provide relief to some children.

How Cold Foods and Drinks Can Help

Here’s how cold items can be helpful during a sore throat or cough:

1. Soothing Effect
Cold foods can numb the throat slightly, giving temporary pain relief. This makes swallowing easier and can help your child eat or drink more comfortably.

2. Reduce Swelling
Cold temperatures may calm down inflammation in the throat, just like applying an ice pack to a swollen ankle.

3. Encourage Drinking
Sick children often don’t want to drink. Cold drinks or popsicles may taste better and help them stay hydrated—which is crucial for healing.

4. Cooling Down Fevers
If your child has a fever, cool drinks can help bring the temperature down gently while keeping them comfortable.

Introducing the “Tonsillar Diet” by Dr. Soo

If your child is recovering from tonsillitis or another throat infection, a soft and soothing diet—known as a tonsillar diet—is often recommended. This diet helps reduce throat irritation while ensuring your child gets enough fluids and nutrients to heal.

Foods to Include:

• Soft foods: Mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soft porridge, yogurt, smoothies, soups

• Cool or room temperature items: Ice cream, sorbet, popsicles

• Hydrating liquids: Water, diluted juices, warm broths, herbal teas

• Gentle proteins: Soft chicken, tofu, turkey, smooth nut butter

These foods are gentle on the throat and easy to swallow. They also help with hydration and nutrition when your child isn’t eating much.

Foods to Avoid:

• Spicy or acidic foods: Like citrus fruits, spicy sauces, and chili

• Hard or crunchy foods: Such as chips, crackers, toast, and raw vegetables

• Dairy (if it worsens mucus): Like full-cream milk or cheese (Note: this varies; some kids are fine with it)

• Very hot or very cold foods: Extreme temperatures might trigger discomfort or coughing

Extra Tips:

• Keep them hydrated, especially if there’s a fever

• Use pain relief medicine only if advised by your doctor

• Respect your child’s preferences for temperature and taste

• If symptoms last or worsen, see your pediatrician

Are There Times to Be More Careful with Cold Items?

Yes, in a few situations:

• If your child has asthma, cold drinks may trigger coughing. Room-temperature drinks are safer in this case.

• If your child has reflux, cold dairy might cause more discomfort.

• If cold food makes your child feel worse, avoid it. Let comfort guide you.

Always observe how your child reacts. If cold food or drink calms them, there’s no need to avoid it.

Other Soothing Food Ideas

Whether your child prefers warm or cold, here are options for both:

Warm and soothing:

• Warm clear soup or chicken broth

• Soft porridge or oatmeal

• Warm water with honey (only for children over 1 year)

• Herbal teas like chamomile or ginger (caffeine-free)

Cold and gentle:

• Fruit smoothies

• Yogurt or kefir

• Chilled jelly or pudding

• Popsicles made from 100% fruit juice

What Do Doctors Say?

No rule says children must avoid cold foods or drinks when they are sick. There’s no medical reason to deny your child a popsicle or ice cream during a sore throat, as long as it helps them feel better.

The key is hydration, comfort, and nutrition. Whether warm or cold, offer foods your child is willing to eat and drink.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Please bring your child to a clinic if:

• The sore throat or cough lasts more than 3–4 days

• Your child has a high fever (above 38.5°C)

• They refuse to eat or drink anything

• They are drooling, have trouble swallowing, or breathing

• You see white patches in the throat (maybe strep)

• The cough lasts more than 2 weeks

Final Thoughts from Dr. Soo

So, should you give your child cold drinks or ice cream when they have a sore throat or cough?

Yes—you can. Cold foods and drinks are generally safe and can be comforting. They may reduce pain, cool the throat, and help your child stay hydrated and nourished.

Of course, every child is different. Some prefer warm porridge, others love a cold smoothie. The most important thing is to listen to your child’s needs, offer gentle options, and keep an eye on their recovery.

If you’re ever unsure, I always encourage you to speak with your child’s doctor. We’re here to help you through every sneeze, cough, and sore throat.

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Dr. Soo is a dedicated pediatrician with a passion for child health and wellness. With years of experience, Dr. Soo strives to educate parents on effective ways to improve their children’s health and well-being.