Foods to Avoid for Tonsillitis and Tonsil Stone Prevention

Tonsillitis, i.e. inflammation of tonsils in the throat, is a common condition that usually improves with little treatment. However, it can cause severe problems and may require antibiotic treatment along with lifestyle adjustments if left unattended. Moreover, chronic or recurrent tonsillitis can also contribute towards tonsil stone formation, a highly painful condition that may sometimes require surgery, commonly known as tonsillectomy.

According to top ENT specialists in Pakistan, avoiding or restricting certain foods, however, can aid in preventing them altogether.

Here is a list of the top 7 foods to avoid for tonsillitis and tonsil stone prevention:

1- Dairy Products:

Mucus accumulation due to post nasal drip in the throat is a prime, yet lesser known causative factor of tonsil stones; and dairy products, particularly the protein ‘casein’ present in them are major contributors. Excess casein also helps harden the stone-forming bacteria, mucus, food particles and dead cells in the throat.

To check if dairy is the cause of your tonsil stones, eliminate all calcium products from your diet for 2 weeks and observe any changes. If so, then discontinue use altogether. To confirm if dairy is for you, visit an internal medicine specialist in Karachi as soon as possible.

2- Husky Foods:

Foods such as popcorn, sesame seeds, and spinach that leave small pieces stuck in the throat settle over the tonsils or in the crypts (hollow spaces) surrounding the tonsils, and can accumulate over time to form stones, along with irritating the throat in case of tonsillitis.

While simply restricting their intake is usually sufficient, certain individuals with chronic tonsillitis may have to omit them entirely.

3- Sugar, Caffeine and Alcohol:

Not only do caffeine, alcohol, and processed, sugary foods contribute towards mucus production and increase tonsil inflammation, but, combined with excess alcohol consumption, reduce saliva production and dry out the mouth and throat.

These dry areas create the perfect breeding ground for stone and tonsillitis-causing bacteria. Carbonated beverages do much the same and must be avoided as well.

4- Spicy Foods:

The heat generated from spicy foods like peppers, red chilli powder or paste, spicy sauces, ginger, etc. promotes tonsil stone growth via mucus buildup.

Moreover, these spicy ingredients along with acidic tomato products like ketchup can further aggravate an already-present case of tonsillitis by inducing coughing fits. In a similar vein, avoid acidic fruits like oranges and grapefruits for the treatment duration, or completely in case of recurring tonsillitis.

5- Egg Yolks:

While scrambled eggs and boiled egg whites are considered highly effective for easing an inflamed throat, egg yolks are major mucus contributors, particularly if consumed in excess. Therefore, reduce consumption to 2-3 yolks a week, or avoid entirely in case of stones or tonsillitis.

6- Solid Foods:

While not a preventative measure, solid foods such as pizza crusts, hard cookies and crackers, and potato crisps are known tonsil irritants and should be avoided for the duration of tonsillitis treatment. Opt instead for soft, creamy foods like mashed potatoes, boiled pasta or rice, and soups.

Similarly, choose to eat and drink foods and liquids at room temperature instead of their hot counterparts to avoid irritating the tonsils any further.

7- Gluten:

Although the proteins found in gluten are an integral building block for wheat and other grains, it is also a major component of most pre-packaged foods; making it not only a major health hazard, but also a common cause of tonsil stones in certain gluten-intolerant individuals. In such cases, eliminate gluten from your diet and opt for fruits, vegetables, and meats instead.

While most of the dietary adjustments mentioned above are entirely ‘natural’, always consult with your doctor before making any changes or starting a diet plan to ensure overall bodily health. You can also book an appointment with a top ENT Specialist in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939  for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your throat-related concerns.