When a patient has a sinus infection (sinusitis), there is swelling or inflammation inside the nose and head causing stuffy nose or difficulty of breathing, as well as pain on the forehead and around the eyes.
We have to do something to protect ourselves and one way is through the foods we eat. Aside from the foods we are allergic to, the following foods should be avoided when having sinus problems:
Foods to Avoid?
Many people consider gluten as an allergic food because gluten-containing foods cause inflammation.
Gluten
1
Who would resist crunchy and tasty potatoes? No one! But if you are currently having sinus problems, it is better to avoid these foods for a while.
Refined carbohydrates
2
Due to the acidic content of tomatoes, histamine levels in the body increase causing an allergic reaction that triggers inflammation of the sinuses.
Tomatoes
3
Omega-6 fatty acids are generally good for your health but consuming excess amounts while having sinus problems may worsen the condition.
Omega-6 fatty acids
4
It has been noted that red meats can turn into mucus making the sinus condition worse.
Red meat
5
Although tuna is good for the heart, it can cause nasal passage to swell because tuna may cause inflammation.
Tuna
6
Whole milk makes your body produce more mucus; so if there is a mucus build-up, congestion might occur causing your symptoms to worsen.
Whole milk
7
Bananas are rich in carbohydrates, when having sinus problems, it is better to avoid this fruit; it can exacerbate inflammation.
Bananas
8
Beer or wine can trigger nasal congestion that may worsen the symptoms of sinusitis. It can cause swelling of nasal tissues.
Beer or wine
9
Like alcohol, coffee causes dehydration that can add up to the stiffness you feel when having sinus problems.
Coffee
10
According to a study, trans-fatty acids promote inflammation in the body and these types of foods can be acquired through fried, fast, and frozen foods including pizza.
Trans-fatty acids
11
Consuming high amounts of processed sugar does not just lead to obesity, but also leads to inflammation. Remember, inflammation can lead to sinusitis.
Processed sugar
12
Monosodium glutamate is a common food enhancer. According to a study, MSG does not just target and destroys the liver, but also causes chronic inflammation.
MSG
13
We all love spicy foods! But sadly, spicy foods cause an allergic reaction because they produce histamines that cause the nasal tissues to swell and become watery.
Spicy foods
14
With the right nutrition we can prevent and relieve sinus problems.
Here are several food items that can help you with sinus infection:
What to Eat?
When you are fully hydrated, your body and your cells work perfectly, and your immune system is ready to fight any illnesses that may come along.
Plenty of fluids
1
Anti-inflammatory foods are the best defense against infection. Some of these are: garlic, onion, ginger, turmeric, pineapple.
Anti-inflammatory
2
Honey and coconut oil help in relieving sore throat and reduce seasonal allergies. Therefore they can be used in relieving sinus problems.
Antibacterial foods
3
Green tea contains flavonoids, which act as an antioxidant to the mucus membranes.
Green tea
4
Vitamin C fights sinus infection faster by reducing sinus inflammation and strengthening the immune system.
Vitamin C
5
The foods we eat matter so much when dealing with sinusitis. Therefore, we should eat the right, nutritious diet, and eliminate the foods causing inflammation.