7 Foods That Help With Sinus Infection

Sinus infection is a common household symptom almost every one faces. Sinus infection causes severe pain in your forehead or between the eyes, a swollen face and stuffy nose. Here are some foods that help with sinus infection.

What Is Good For Sinus Infection?

• Pineapple is a great decongestant
• Grape fruit is powerful natural antibiotic
• Cantaloupe Cures Sinus Headaches
• Kiwi protects the body from inflammation
• Mangoes boost immunity against sinus infections
• Berries have anti-bacterial properties
• Apples are useful in sinus treatment

What Not To Eat If You Have Sinus Infection?

• Dairy products aid in formation of mucus and phlegm
• Foods with high sugar content cause inflammation in children
• Tomatoes, because they contain histamine which aggravates sinus symptoms
• It is not advisable for sinus patients to have bananas as they produce phlegm and also cause congestion and shortness of breath if consumed at night or during winters.

Typically, it is the infection in the sinus cavities that connect to our nose and allow a free exchange of air and mucus. If infection spreads in these points, it cause Sinusitis, and usually inflames, or becomes red and swollen. Bacteria, virus and fungus cause this infection usually.

While there are many sinus cavities, also known as sinus pockets, in our body, Sinusitis refers to the one that connects to our nose; i.e. the four points found just above and below the eyes. They usually contain a small layer of protective mucus to trap bacteria and keep the are moist, but they are helpless when your body immunity is low or you have an allergy attack. It is when sinusitis comes into play.

When To Consult A Doctor If You Have Sinus?

If you have a sinus infection, you feel stuffed-up and tired, your face is tender and swollen, headache and pressure increases when you bend over with the accumulation of yellow-green mucus. Now, acute sinusitis is common and occurs for a short period of time for about 4 weeks or less. It would be chronic if it lasts for more than 12 weeks or in case of recurring infections. In such cases, it is better to consult your ENT specialist.

Sinus infections can be really painful and troubling, but have you noticed that you feel a lot better when you have a good meal after a long day of pain. It is true! Some foods can heal and prevent sinus infections. If you want to have a perfectly healthy sinus system, start with adapting a healthier lifestyle.

It is just so simple, isn’t it?

Here are 7 fruits that you can include in your diet and help your body fight the Sinusitis:

1. Pineapple Is A Great Decongestant

Pineapple is a storehouse of antioxidants which help protect the mucus membranes from damage. It is enriched with Vitamin C and an enzyme called Bromelain, which is known for its ability to break down the excess sinus mucus and reduce the production of mucus caused by allergies. These enzymes, common in pineapples, reduce inflammation and swelling, acting as great decongestants. It is best to consume pineapples as a fruit alone or in salads, or also as fresh juice or grilled as a side dish to help relieve the congestion.

2. Grapefruit Is a Powerful Natural Antibiotic

The citrusy fruit known for its high salicylic acid content that helps thin mucus and reduce inflammation causing allergies. Grapefruit is also rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a pro for clearing sinus congestion. Also known as a powerful antibiotic, grapefruit seed extract has the power to ward off bacteria, viruses and can kill germs. It can clear sinus blockages and is a powerful immunity booster. Quercetin, a potent antioxidant in grapefruit extract, works wonders as a natural antihistamine. Mix a few drops of grapefruit seed extract in hot water and inhale it to get relieved from nose irritation and congestion.

3. Cantaloupe Cures Sinus Headaches

Like most fruits, cantaloupes are mostly water. Along with natural water, they also contain essential minerals like magnesium that are an instant cure to sinus headaches. These minerals keep body fluids balanced and keeps you hydrated all day. This juicy summer fruit is a powerful antioxidant that keeps the protective layer of mucus from damage. Rich in phytonutrients, cantaloupes have added anti-inflammatory properties keeping your sinus from increasing in multi-folds. It’s always recommended to include them in your healthy diet as fruits or in salads.

4. Kiwi Protects The Body From Inflammation

The ultimate form of nutrients your body requires to fight sinus inflammation comes packed in kiwi. According to a research study published in 2013, in the Advances in Food and Nutrition Research, compounds found in kiwi made a significant impact on increasing immunity and combating chronic sinus or lung infections. Kiwi is a great source of natural Vitamin C and A. It also provides a lot of immunity-boosting nutrients while protecting the body from free radicals. Kiwi is known for reducing oxidative stress owing to its richness in antioxidants. To sum it up, kiwi is a package full of health benefits for those suffering with sinus ailments.

5. Mangoes Boost Immunity Against Sinusitis

The king of fruits is sure to have some health benefits, right? Available during the heart of summer season, this beloved fruit is rich in Vitamin A. It acts as an immunity booster against sinus infection. Mangoes not only help soothe Sinusitis but also prevent the respiratory tract from clogging. It also contributes to the development of strong mucous membranes lining the throat and nose. You can savor the delicacy as raw fruit, juice, pickle or in salads.

6. Berries Have Anti-Bacterial Properties

One can only imagine how many benefits small fruits like berries can have. As for a commonly known fact, berries are nutrient-dense and have several healing properties. They contain Xylitol, a polyol sugar alcohol compound that is popularly known for its antibacterial properties. It ensures that unwanted bacteria do not hold onto the mucosal membrane of the nose. It reduces the bacterial activity in the nasal cavities. Blackberries, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries aid in healing of sinus infections.

7. Apples Are Used to Treat Sinusitis

Apples are rich in polyphenols, a highly significant group of antioxidants that protect the sinus cavities from free radicals. These polyphenols stop the development of chronic conditions; while also reducing inflammation. The fruit’s skin is a great source of Quercetin, the phyto-nutrient used to treat rhinitis and sinusitis. Apples are rich in vitamins, calcium and magnesium that aids in treating chronic sinus infection. Drinking warm water with apple cider vinegar also helps in fighting the condition.

While the above mentioned natural supplements are great and highly beneficial. But if you are constantly battling with sever sinus infection, it is important for you to understand which foods aggravate your condition. Avoiding foods like tomatoes which contain histamines, high sugar content chocolates, cheese, gluten, and fruits like bananas, which can cause congestion are best to curb while undergoing sinusitis. It is also recommended to pay regular visits to your ENT specialist in case of severe/chronic sinus infections for your overall well being.