Does Coughing Burn Calories

Does Coughing Burn Calories? Here's What You Need to Know

When you're stuck in bed with a cold or flu, you might wonder if coughing burns calories. The answer is yes—coughing does burn calories, but not enough to replace a good workout or a balanced diet. Each time you cough, your body uses energy to contract the muscles in your chest and abdomen. However, the calorie burn from coughing is minimal.

According to health experts, the exact number of calories burned while coughing varies based on factors like intensity and frequency. On average, a single cough might burn between 1/2 to 2 calories. If you're dealing with a persistent coughing fit, those occasional coughs could add up slightly, but it won’t make a significant impact on your daily calorie expenditure.

While coughing alone isn't a weight loss strategy, illness itself can increase the number of calories burned. Fever, for example, raises your metabolic rate as your body works harder to fight off infection. However, losing weight during illness is typically a result of dehydration and a lack of appetite—not something to aim for intentionally.

If you're curious about how your body processes energy throughout the day, tracking calories from food and daily activities is vital. PowerDreamer's AI Calorie Counter makes it effortless to monitor your daily intake of calories, protein, carbs, and fat. Simply snap a picture of your food or labels, and the app handles the rest! Start tracking smarter today by visiting PowerDreamer AI Calorie Counter.