Mucus production in our body is good as it protects our body from dust, germ, and bacteria. Additionally, it prevents airborne particles from entering our lungs and infecting them. However, there are diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD which occur due to excessive mucus production. Therefore, excess mucus production needs to be in control and that can only happen when one knows of the mucus producing food.
COPD can be detrimental to health but in most cases is often reversible. One only needs to be mindful about the food one consumes. Certain food items flare-up mucus production in the body. Let us have look at them so that one can use such food items mindfully during consumption.
Mucus producing food that you need to know of
Certain food items not only increase mucus production but also thicken the existing mucus in the body. This change in the consistency of the mucus causes havoc in the body for COPD patients.
The knowledge of such food items is not only beneficial for COPD patients but also for people who are not suffering from the disease as well. This is because prevention is always better than cure.
1. Dairy Products
Dairy products are number one on our mucus producing food list. This is because dairy is consumed regularly by a lot of people around the world. However, dairy products can be detrimental to the health of some people with specific conditions. For instance, let us take the case of lactose intolerance or COPD.
Dairy products contain molecules known as casein, Casein acts as a catalyst for mucus production.
There are ample dairy substitutes in the market, for instance, coconut yogurt or rice milk. Therefore, the next time you have dairy cravings, consider some of these options. Some people report that cutting off dairy helped them to have clearer skin.
2. Wheat
Wheat contains gluten and so do food items like bread and pasta. Gluten causes excessive mucus secretion. This is a problem for people with gluten intolerance.
3. Deep-Fried Food Items
Deep-fried food items contain excess saturated fat which is harmful to the body. These food items clog arteries and also increase mucus secretion in the body.
4. Soy
Soy is a healthy food item to include in your diet. However, if consumed in excess it can cause problems. It is responsible for producing excess mucus in surplus quantities. Try to avoid tofu or soy milk when you feel under the weather.
5. Caffeine
Caffeine-containing drinks like coffee, black tea, and soft drinks accelerate the mucus secretion in the body. Consider swapping such drink options with healthier caffeine options such as herbal teas or decaf coffee.
6. Refined Sugar
Food items containing refined sugar such as delightful candies, pastries, or cookies accelerate mucus secretion in your body. These food items taste delicious and can qualify as your weekly cheat meal. However, they are harmful if consumed regularly.
7. Red meat
Processed meat and high-fat food items increase the level of mucus secretion in your body. Red meat is a food item that should be consumed in moderation. It can lead to other health problems as well. Therefore white meat and poultry are better options for people dealing with excess mucus secretion.
8. Alcohol
Alcohol is not good for people suffering from excessive mucus secretion. It dilates your blood vessels. These dilated blood vessels in your nose and sinus lead to increased blood flow. This later causes sinus and nasal congestion. Additionally, alcohol causes dehydration which leads to more mucus secretion in the body.
Anti-Mucus Diet
Now that we know about the food items that accelerate the production of mucus in the body, let us know about food items that help control the mucus production in the body.
1. Pineapple
Pineapple is good for conditions of excess mucus secretion and otherwise for health benefits. It boosts the immune system. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate congestion. Bioflavonoid bromelain is an enzyme in pineapples that supports sinus conditions. It reduces any kind of mucus production and swelling.
2. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits like grapefruits are useful in breaking down excessive mucus. A warm glass of lemon squeezed water is also beneficial to the same effect. Moreover, the vitamin C in citrus helps boost immunity.
3. Fish
Fishes that are rich in omega 3 are a good option in your diet that helps reduce excessive mucus secretion. Some of them are salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, and sardines.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar works wonders in breaking down any mucus congestion in the body. Consider having two tablespoons of it in warm water on an empty stomach. Alternatively, you can consider consuming it with your herbal tea as well.
5. Spicy and warm
Warm food helps thin mucus easily. This is why one is recommended to have it when one catches a cold. Broths or warm homemade healthy soups are not only tasty but a healthy way of fighting off extra mucus in the body.
Spices have the same effect as warm food. Spices such as chilli, cumin, turmeric, thyme, ginger, sage, etc. are good for consumption.
Herbal teas are an alternative option to help expel mucus from the body. Some herbal teas that you should check out are ginger, peppermint, and chamomile. The latter two have a calming effect on the body.
6. Vegetables
Vegetables are ideal for a balanced and healthy diet. Additionally, they help resolve any deficiencies or issues in the body when consumed regularly. Lightly steamed seasoned greens are very good for the body and for dealing with mucus problems. Leafy greens are essential to keep you healthy all around the year.
Consider including garlic and onions in your diet. Onion contains a component called quercetin that is anti-inflammatory and helps control mucus in the body.
Final thoughts
We hope that this post here serves as your go-to in mucus producing food and informs you on the diet options you should be including to control mucus secretion.
