Sinuses are the air-filled spaces in the facial bones of the skull. These are lined with mucus membrane for lubrication. Sinusitis refers to the infection and inflammation of the sinuses. This results in congestion of the spaces due to thickening and excess production of the mucus. This seems to be a simple problem unless one gets to experience it. A bout of sinuses can be very annoying and uncomfortable for a person. There is a feeling of tiredness and heaviness at the same time inside the head. There are certain foods associated with it which can either increase or decrease the impact of this condition. A careful selection of these can lead to reduction of sinusitis and its effects. These foods are very common and can be classified as good or bad owing to their properties of either improving or worsening the sinusitis condition.
The following food items should be avoided in sinusitis:
1. Milk and milk products
Milk is associated with phlegm formation. The mucus can become thick and can block the sinus thus making the condition worse. This should be avoided during the condition. Same goes for other byproducts of milk.
2. Spicy food products
Spicy foods can trigger sinusitis as it stimulates the acid reflux in the stomach and this in turn stimulates the sinus. The inflammation of the nasopharyngeal region onsets the sinusitis condition.
3. Evening meals and sleep
Late evening meals and less time gap before sleep can also trigger the sinus problem. The nasal cavity is interconnected with the stomach. While lying down in the digestion stages the reflux could cause some acid to move toward the throat. This could trigger the onset of sinusitis.
4. Alcohol
It is a very big culprit in triggering the condition. Alcohol dehydrates the body to a large extent due to frequent urination. This results in loss of water and hardening of the mucus which causes irritation and congestion in the sinus. It also causes excess acid production the acid reflux can lead to irritation of the sinuses.
5. Caffeine containing drinks
Drinks like coffee and soda can increase acid reflux and worsen the sinus condition. These are also dehydrating leading to thickening of the mucus and blocking of the air passages.
6. Refined sugar rich products
Chocolates, cakes, and biscuits should be avoided as these contain high amounts of sugar which can worsen the condition. The rich sugar in these products is not broken down easily.
7. Meat and meat products
Low fiber foods like meat can easily contribute to sinus congestion and should be avoided as far as possible. This increases mucus production which again leads to stuffing and congestion.
8. Cold drinks and liquids
Cold drinks aggravate the condition and should be avoided in all circumstances. They slow down the mucus production and its movement leading to congestion.
However, there are a few food items that help in alleviating this sinusitis condition. Wise selection of these can be very helpful in overcoming this disease. These following food items have been found to relieve the symptoms and making the person comfortable.
1. Fresh foods and vegetables
Eating healthy unprocessed food and fresh vegetables is very helpful. Green leafy vegetables and carrots contain vitamin A which helps in boosting the immunity and in turn helps to recover quickly from the infection. Fresh food also helps in attaining overall well-being and good health.
2. Hot beverages and tea
Sipping hot liquids like tea can clear the nasal passage when hot vapors do soften and dissolve the mucus. Also this clear the sinus passages.
3. Water
Water is hydrating and a lot of water should be taken which cleanses the system. This also softens the mucus and clears it down. Bathing in hot water is also beneficial. Mild juices with less amount of sugar can also be taken at regular intervals. Clear to pale yellow color of the urine is an indication that the body has normal water levels but dark yellow color indicates that water intake is required.
4. Personal experience in avoiding foods
A person may after some observation find the foods which trigger the sinusitis condition and can avoid these altogether. These may differ from person to person and how their bodies respond to the various foods.
Boosting the immunity system will definitely help in fighting sinusitis and other common infections. Taking a proper medical treatment along with the above tips can definitely help to manage the sinusitis condition.
