Tear gas is a chemical irritant used in some situations to control crowds. If you’ve been exposed to tear gas, it’s important to know what to eat and drink to help your body recover. This article will guide you through the best foods and drinks to have after tear gas exposure.
Why food and drink choices matter after tear gas exposure
After tear gas exposure, your body needs help to heal. The right foods and drinks can:
- Reduce inflammation (swelling) in your body
- Help flush out the harmful chemicals
- Boost your immune system (the body’s defence system)
- Provide comfort and relief
Hydration: the most important step
Drinking plenty of water is the single most important thing you can do after tear gas exposure. Water helps to:
- Flush out the tear gas chemicals from your body
- Keep you hydrated (having enough fluids in your body)
- Soothe your throat if it’s irritated
Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water in the hours after exposure. Keep drinking water regularly throughout the next few days.
Other hydrating drinks include:
Coconut water
This is a good choice because it has natural electrolytes (minerals that help with hydration), is gentle on your stomach, and can help replace fluids you’ve lost.
Herbal teas
Some helpful herbal teas include:
- Chamomile tea: It can help calm your nerves and reduce inflammation.
- Ginger tea: This can help with nausea and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Green tea: It’s full of antioxidants that can help your body heal.
Avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee or regular tea, as these can dehydrate you.
Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are important because they contain vitamins and minerals that help your body heal. They have antioxidants that fight inflammation. Also, they provide fibre to help your digestive system.
Some good choices are:
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits) (Wait a day or two if your throat is sore)
- Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- Carrots
- Bananas – these are another soft and easy-to-eat option. They’re also a great source of potassium, a mineral that can help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating or irritation.
Soups and broths
Soups and broths are a great choice after tear gas exposure for a few reasons. First, if your throat is sore and swallowing is painful, broths and soups are very easy to swallow. They’re nice and smooth, going down gently without irritating your throat further.
Second, broths and soups provide extra fluids to your body. This is important because tear gas can dehydrate you, and staying hydrated helps your body flush out the tear gas chemicals.
You can make your own vegetable soup packed with chopped carrots, celery, and spinach, or simply have some clear chicken broth for a quick and easy option. Both will help you rehydrate and feel better.
If your mouth or throat feels irritated and sore after tear gas exposure, some gentle foods can help soothe the discomfort and make eating a little easier.
Yoghurt
This is soft and cool food that’s easy to swallow. It’s also a good source of probiotics, which are live bacteria that help keep your gut healthy. Having healthy gut bacteria can be helpful during recovery because it supports your immune system.
Foods to avoid after tear gas exposure
While your body heals from tear gas exposure, it’s best to avoid certain foods that can irritate your throat and stomach even more.
Spicy foods
Put down the hot sauce for a few days! Spicy foods irritate your throat and stomach lining, which can already be inflamed from the tear gas. This will make you feel more uncomfortable and might even cause heartburn.
Acidic foods
Take a break from those tangy tomatoes and citrus fruits (except maybe strawberries if your throat feels alright). Acidic foods irritate your already sore throat, making it feel scratchy and painful. Wait a day or two after exposure before having these again.
Vinegar-based foods
Similar to acidic fruits, dressings, marinades, and condiments with vinegar can irritate your throat. It’s best to avoid them for a few days after tear gas exposure.
Dairy products
Some people find that dairy products, like milk, cheese, and yoghurt, can increase mucus production. This can make congestion worse, especially if you’re already experiencing a runny nose or post-nasal drip from the tear gas. If you notice more mucus after consuming dairy, avoid it for a few days and see if your symptoms improve.
Alcohol
Hold off on that celebratory beer! Alcohol is dehydrating, and you need plenty of fluids to flush out the tear gas chemicals. Drinking alcohol can also worsen your overall discomfort and slow down your healing process. It’s best to wait at least 24 hours after exposure before consuming any alcohol.
Additional tips
- Eat small, frequent meals if your stomach is upset.
- Choose foods that are room temperature or cool, not very hot.
- Listen to your body: If a food doesn’t feel good, don’t eat it.
In conclusion…
After tear gas exposure, focus on staying hydrated and eating foods that will help your body heal. Drink plenty of water and herbal teas. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and choose soft, gentle foods if your throat is sore.
Avoid spicy, acidic foods and alcohol. With the right food and drink choices, you can help your body recover more quickly from tear gas exposure.
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