Is It Better to Swallow or Spit Mucus?

Mucus is a slimy substance produced by your body to protect your respiratory system from bacteria, viruses, and other irritants. It can be clear, white, or yellow, and it can be thick or thin. When you have a cold or the flu, you may produce more mucus than usual. This is because your body is trying to get rid of the infection.

There is a lot of debate about whether it is better to swallow or spit mucus. Some people believe that swallowing mucus is healthier because it helps to keep your throat moist and prevents you from getting sick. Others believe that spitting mucus is better because it helps to clear your throat and prevent congestion.

Benefit	How to do
Prevents dehydration: Swallowing mucus helps to keep your throat moist, which can prevent dehydration.	Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated.
Protects your throat from bacteria and viruses: Mucus contains antibodies that can help to protect your throat from bacteria and viruses.	Avoid touching your face, especially your nose and mouth, to reduce your risk of exposure to germs.
Clears your throat: Swallowing mucus can help to clear your throat and prevent congestion.	Use a saline nasal spray or gargle with salt water to help thin mucus and clear your throat.

Swallowing Mucus

According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, swallowing mucus is generally safe and healthy. In fact, swallowing mucus can help to keep your throat moist and prevent you from getting sick. Swallowing mucus can also help to clear your throat and prevent congestion.

Benefit	How to do
Prevents dehydration: Swallowing mucus helps to keep your throat moist, which can prevent dehydration.	Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated.
Protects your throat from bacteria and viruses: Mucus contains antibodies that can help to protect your throat from bacteria and viruses.	Avoid touching your face, especially your nose and mouth, to reduce your risk of exposure to germs.
Clears your throat: Swallowing mucus can help to clear your throat and prevent congestion.	Use a saline nasal spray or gargle with salt water to help thin mucus and clear your throat.

Spitting Mucus

Spitting mucus is not as common as swallowing mucus, but it is still a safe and effective way to clear your throat. Spitting mucus can help to remove excess mucus from your throat and prevent congestion. It can also help to prevent the spread of germs.

Benefit	How to do
Clears your throat: Spitting mucus can help to clear your throat and prevent congestion.	Use a tissue or handkerchief to spit mucus into.
Prevents the spread of germs: Spitting mucus can help to prevent the spread of germs by removing excess mucus from your throat.	Avoid spitting mucus in public places.
Reduces congestion: Spitting mucus can help to reduce congestion by removing excess mucus from your throat.	Use a saline nasal spray or gargle with salt water to help thin mucus and clear your throat.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to swallow or spit mucus is a personal one. There are no right or wrong answers. However, if you are concerned about your mucus production or if you have any questions, you should talk to your doctor.

Is It Better to Swallow or Spit Mucus?