The popular term ‘cold and cough’ refers to the coughing symptoms that occur in patients with the common cold. It is advisable to avoid irritating foods such as fennel, garlic, chillies and onions during the onset of the illness. Foods high in sodium, such as dried seaweed, clams, oysters and pistachios, should also be limited. In general, you should eat a moderate diet and also avoid eating large amounts of spicy, oily and carbonated foods. It is important to note that the severity of the disease can vary significantly from patient to patient and that diet is only one part of the treatment. It is therefore advisable to seek medical advice if you are unwell and your doctor will be able to formulate an appropriate treatment plan and give you sound dietary advice based on your individual circumstances.