The days after Diwali often bring itchy eyes, a runny nose, congestion, throat irritation and a persistent cough for people in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai. The cause is the sharp rise in air pollution that follows the festival, according to a report by Curly Tales first published on 10 November at 11:23 AM.

No food can protect the lungs from polluted air, the report says plainly. What a balanced diet and good hydration can do is support the body's general health while it recovers from the irritation.

Vitamin C-rich fruits are among the simplest recommendations. Amla, oranges, guava, sweet lime and lemons are all named in the report as fruits that can be added to the daily diet in the days after the festival.

Ginger and tulsi tea is another suggestion. A warm cup can soothe an irritated throat, and both ginger and tulsi are traditionally used in Indian homes for coughs and colds.

Foods that support recovery

Green vegetables are also recommended. Spinach, methi and broccoli are named in the report as vegetables worth including in meals while the air is still poor.

Turmeric milk as an evening drink is another tip in the report. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties, and warm milk with turmeric is a familiar home remedy across India.

The advice is general and practical rather than medical. It is about eating well, drinking enough water and giving the throat warm, soothing drinks, not about any single food acting as a cure.

What else helps

Staying hydrated matters more than usual when the throat is irritated. Water, warm soups and herbal teas keep the throat moist, while very cold drinks and heavily fried food can add to the discomfort.

Limiting time outdoors when pollution is at its worst is also sensible, particularly in the early morning and late evening when smog tends to settle. People who must go out can wear a mask that fits well.

Rest matters too. A persistent cough after exposure to smoke and dust usually settles in a few days once the air improves, but pushing through long days without rest can slow recovery.

Anyone with breathlessness, wheezing, chest pain or a cough that lasts well beyond the festival period should see a doctor rather than relying on home remedies. People with asthma or other lung conditions should follow the plan they have agreed with their doctor and seek care early if symptoms worsen.