When you have an upper respiratory tract infection, a cough is one of the most common symptoms you will encounter — it is actually your body’s way of expelling microbes and toxins. However, nothing can make you abhor having a cough more than when it’s the dry kind that can leave your chest and throat aching all the time!

If currently a dry cough is pestering you, continue reading. The following are some of the foods that you should include in your diet in order to make your cough productive as well as to accelerate the healing of an infection:

Watermelons

Since watermelons are over 90% water, it’s a wonderful idea for you to consume them on a regular basis. Having your overall intake of fluids increased can help ease a dry cough by promoting the production of sputum or phlegm that can be expelled easily, thus driving out anything that is leaving your upper respiratory feeling irritated.

Berries

Just like watermelons, berries are loaded with water. This only means that their consumption can help have your fluid intake boosted. Besides, the likes of blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are also loaded with antioxidants that are very good at enhancing your immune system.

Oranges

Speaking of the immune system, we all know that it is something that can be greatly strengthened with vitamin C. It’s for this reason exactly why you should add oranges to your diet. It’s not unlikely for you to lose your appetite when you have a dry cough, and drinking freshly squeezed orange juice can help you get all the vitamin C you need.

Papayas

Not fond of really acidic fruits? Then get your hands on ripe papayas because they are also impressive sources of that immune-strengthening vitamin C. Just in case papaya is not in season, fret not because you can obtain vitamin C from other tropical fruits such as kiwis, mangoes and guavas.

Apples

Did you know that an apple or two a day can help a dry cough go away? Not only is it a good source of vitamin C, but also a superb supplier of water. You may also have pears instead of apples. By the way, apples and pears help increase your appetite, which is something that tend to be curbed when you are not feeling fine.

Broccoli

When it comes to vegetables, broccoli is one of the leading ones that pack plenty of water — so make sure that you have some steamed broccoli when you have a dry cough. Some other vegetables that supply your body with water include cauliflower, zucchini, eggplant, celery and red cabbage.

Honey

There are so many health-related concerns that can be remedied with a little honey, and that includes a bout of dry cough. You can add a teaspoon of honey to a cup of ginger tea, lemon tea or any other herbal tea of your liking. However, make sure that you opt for honey that is pure and raw, and not the kind that’s mostly sugar.

Chicken Soup

Having chicken soup when you have a dry cough is a phenomenal idea because of a couple of reasons. First, it adds to your overall intake of fluid, helping to make dry cough a productive one. Second, chicken soup supplies your body with high quality protein, which is something your body needs to bounce back from an infection.

CAUTION: If your dry cough refuses to go away after a few days or seems to worsen, it’s a good idea for you to see your doctor right away. This is especially true if you have a high fever and also a bunch of other symptoms.

Don’t forget to have this article reposted on your assortment of social media sites to let your family and friends know what to eat in case they are being bugged by a pesky dry cough!