5 Anti-Inflammatory Foods that Reduce Mucus, Phlegm and Snot
Whenever my nose gets stuffy and my cough a little phlegm-like, I realize it is time to clean up my diet with some anti-inflammatory foods. Mucus is produced in the body as a defense mechanism against toxins, viruses and bacteria and dually cushions and protects the bodies cells in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital, visual and auditory systems in humans.
So, while mucus is important in our day-to-day bodily functions, when you start to notice its existence, you’re body’s defenses are up against something and it’s time for you to help them out. The following 5 anti-inflammatory foods help to reduce mucus in your system and restore your body’s balance.
1. Pumpkin Seeds
Traditional Chinese medicine utilizes pumpkin seeds help to regulate the flow of excess mucus. Whether this is sound advice or not is up to your own trial and error, and there is little to lose in the process, as pumpkin seeds carry plenty of other health benefits.
2. Onion
In one study, evidence showed that quercetin, a compound found in onions, may help treat cell-derived allergic inflammatory diseases. In addition to reducing inflammation, quercetin has also exhibited the potential for treating chronic airway diseases by attenuating mucus production.
3. Ginger
Ginger has been shown strengthen the immune system’s response to inflammation associated with asthma. Ginger is a panacea of sorts and is a powerful detoxifying agent that targets the underlying imbalances that lead to mucus overload in the body. It is a detoxificant at heart and an effective one at that.
4. Pineapple
The pineapple fruit may be rough on the outside, but it bears sweet benefits beneath the skin. Pineapple’s bromelain allows it to reduce mucus in the throat and is commonly used as a technique after throat and sinus operations to get rid of mucus.
5. Agar
Agar moistens dryness, dissolves phlegm and mucus in the throat and helps to jumpstart bowels.
Related on Organic Authority
3 Natural Ways to Unclog Your Sinuses
Relieve Nasal Congestion with an Essential Oil Sinus Steam
Image: albert freeman
