Sick with a cold? Doctors warn that favorite comfort foods could make you feel worse

As we approach winter — and all the illnesses that come with this time of year — many Americans are looking for proactive measures to protect their health.Between loading up on citrus fruits and eating fresh vegetables, it’s worthwhile to build up a healthy immune system to protect against germs.But when you’re hit with a cold or the flu, which foods will help you recover — and which ones will make the illness worse?Fox News Digital spoke with medical experts about the worst foods to eat while you’re sick — many of which are common choices.Check out four items to avoid — and what to choose instead. You may be tempted to eat spicy foods while your taste buds are weakened, but experts advise against it.Dr.Michael Ednie, a Florida-based doctor and registered dietitian, said spicy foods are a mixed bag. While capsaicin has anti-inflammatory properties, it can worsen throat irritation and coughing, in addition to gastrointestinal symptoms, he said.“Capsaicin, the active component in chili peppers, can trigger temporary nasal decongestion through its effects on TRPV1 receptors, providing symptomatic relief from stuffiness,” Ednie said. “The decision to consume spicy foods during a cold should be individualized based on symptom profile and GI tolerance.”Will Bulsiewicz, a South Carolina-based gastroenterologist and author of “Plant Powered Plus,” said spicy foods “are a double-edged sword.”“They can temporarily open nasal passages and ease congestion, but they can also irritate a sore throat [and cause] reflux [and] nausea,” he said.This may be the most obvious immunity threat on the list — and for good reason.Alcohol impairs the immune system through several mechanisms, said Ednie, including disrupting communication between immune cells and damaging the gut barrier — both of which can trigger widespread inflammation.Alcohol also worsens dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be especially dangerous during illne...