Cough and cold with phlegm can be especially troublesome for someone with diabetes. From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, the symptoms you describe may indicate an imbalance in the kapha dosha, which often leads to mucus accumulation and congestion. In Ayurveda, diet and lifestyle are closely tied to maintaining the purity and balance of the body’s doshas.
Firstly, your dad should avoid dairy products like milk, cheese, and cream as they can increase kapha and worsen phlegm. Instead, try warm, light, and freshly cooked foods that are easier to digest—think clear soups, broths, and steamed vegetables. Foods with a spicy, pungent taste, like ginger and black pepper, can help to break down and eliminate excessive mucus. You can add ginger and black pepper to his meals to help reduce kapha and the accompanying phlegm.
In terms of lifestyle, regular steam inhalation with a few drops of eucalyptus oil can provide relief from congestion. Ensuring a warm environment and wearing appropriate clothing can also prevent cold-related symptoms from escalating.
Keeping in mind his diabetes, turmeric can be a useful addition, given its role in managing inflammation and it’s also helpful for maintaining blood sugar levels. Boil a cup of water with 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, let it cool slightly, and suggest he drinks this daily.
However, if his cough and cold symptoms persist for more than a week or he’s experiencing shortness of breath, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Diabetics need to be cautious with any persisting symptoms to avoid potential complications.
