Mucus is a thick fluid that helps lubricate and protect the body. When mucus becomes excessive because of viruses, allergies or illnesses such as bronchitis and cystic fibrosis, it can cause problems that range from mild discomfort to difficulty breathing. In addition to medical and lifestyle remedies, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) suggests certain foods and nutrients as helpful means toward preventing, loosening or alleviating mucus. A doctor's guidance is suggested for best results.
Chicken or Vegetable Soup
Chicken and vegetable soups might provide multiple benefits for individuals with excess mucus. According to the UMMC, warm fluids such as soup might help break up mucus and reduce congestion associated with the flu. Broth-based soups are optimum, as thick, creamy soups might exacerbate mucus symptoms. Soups provide hydration---which is important while battling infections or illness---and an assortment of nutrients, including antioxidants. Soups containing chicken provide valuable amounts of zinc, which the UMMC suggests for added immune system strength.
Fish and Nuts
Fish and nuts might help prevent or reduce mucus production. According to the UMMC, the anti-inflammatory effects of the healthy fats found in fish and nuts might suppress mucus production in people with medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis. Optimum sources of these fats include cold water fish such as salmon, albacore tuna, sardines, mackerel and lake trout, and walnuts. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health and are known to reduce bodily inflammation. People with asthma, allergies and cold or flu viruses also might benefit from regular intake of fish and nuts because inflammation commonly contributes to mucus production.
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria, similar to "good" bacteria in the body, that support digestion and other aspects of human health. According to natural health expert Andrew Weil, M.D., probiotics might help loosen mucus in the lungs associated with cystic fibrosis. People taking antibiotics also might benefit from probiotics because such medications tend to kill the body's helpful bacteria along with the bad. Probiotics can replenish the helpful bacteria and might support overall wellness. Foods that provide probiotics include yogurt, kefir (a yogurt-like beverage), fermented and unfermented milk, miso, tempeh and various fortified beverages. In some cases, the probiotics occur naturally; in others, they are added.
Garlic, Onions and Celery
In addition to adding flavor and texture to foods, garlic, onions and celery provide numerous wellness benefits. According to the UMMC, garlic, onions and celery are known to inhibit mucus production. Garlic and onions are also believed to support immune system strength and better equip the body to fight and recover from disease. Weil suggests increased garlic intake as a means of preventing clogged arteries and hypertension (high blood pressure) and as a pre-biotic, or an agent known to prevent fungal diseases. For the common cold, Weil suggests chopped garlic atop food at the onset of the virus to prevent or reduce mucus and other symptoms.
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