For people with allergies, cold and other sinus and lung concerns, breathing can be quite the chore. When the nasal passages are blocked with mucus and the lungs are full of phlegm, misery doesn’t begin to describe the feeling.
While it’s tempting to reach for allergy and sinus medications, these pharmaceuticals can often cause drowsiness and other have unpleasant side effects. There is a better way. Mother nature provides a number of alternatives to medications that can help drain the airways and promote better breathing.
If infections are the cause of sinus and lung clogging, foods can also provide assistance. There are a variety of foods that are known for boosting immune function and helping the body better position itself to fight infection.
How Food Helps
There are a variety of foods that are known to promote draining of the sinuses and clearing of the lungs. They generally help by thinning out mucus so it is easier to drain through the body. This happens when foods promote a watering down of the mucus, which leads to a reduction of blockages.
Some foods are known to promote better blood flow, which can actually assist by providing a quicker resolution of infection.
There are also foods that can reduce the length of allergic reactions and even those known to act as natural antibiotics.
Foods That Make A Difference
There are a variety of foods that can be very beneficial for thinning mucus or simply aiding in its removal. Some of the more effective options for fighting breathing concerns related to blockages include:
- Hot peppers – Chili peppers, habanero and even plain black pepper can promote a thinning of mucus, which leads to better drainage of the nasal passages and sinuses. Some really hot peppers can also promote better blood circulation and the release of endorphins. Circulation will assist with the removal of infections. Endorphins can blunt the pain associated with sinus infections.
- Garlic – This spice is great for clearing the sinuses by helping thin mucus. It is also known to be a strong antibiotic and antiviral food. This means it can help the body battle sinus conditions that are related to infection.
- Onions – This vegetables is notorious for making the eyes water, but it may also promote a watering down of mucus. This can help clear passages and lead to better breathing.
- Pineapples – This tropical fruit contains bromelian, which is an enzyme that fights infection and also helps break down mucus in the system.
- Citrus fruits and other sources of vitamin C – Vitamin C is known to boost immune function and reduce the impacts of allergic reactions. This makes it a good tool to use in fighting the effects of clogged sinuses and lungs.
- Hot fluids – Hot tea, soup and other steaming liquids can assist in watering down mucus. To promote drainage, make sure to consume plenty of fluids both hot and cold when sinuses are backed up.
- Mint – Peppermint, spearmint and other strong smelling herbs like eucalyptus can promote thinning of the mucus in the system and drainage. All three can be consumed in tea form.
Sinus backups can cause a tremendous amount of pain and pressure. When it’s time to work the mucus out of the system, the right foods can get the job done. In many cases, they can provide relief while helping users avoid medications to see results.
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