Thirty-six million Americans suffer from chronic sinus problems, and seven million more suffer from stuffy noses, according to US News and World Report. If you're one of those Americans, certain foods can help you feel better. Be aware, however, that, according to the New York Times, some sinus problems are caused by bacterial infection and require antibiotic treatment. The information provided in this article is not intended to replace evaluation and treatment by skilled medical professionals.
Water and Clear Soups
Though not technically a food, water is one of the most important things you can put into your body if you have sinus pressure, especially if your symptoms come from a cold or the flu. According to the Family Doctor website, a service of the American Academy of Family Physicians, fluids will help loosen mucus, as well as guard against dehydration. Family Doctor also recommends clear soups, such as broth, to help keep your fluid intake up.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup, one of the oldest cold remedies, can help you breathe easier. According to the Mayo Clinic, chicken soup reduces nasal inflammation by inhibiting the action of immune system cells which produce swelling. Also, reports the clinic, chicken soup helps mucus move more swiftly though your nose, which will help relieve sinus pressure, and, if your symptoms are caused by a viral infection, also help limit the amount of time that viruses can work on your nasal membranes.
Chili Peppers
When you eat a chili pepper, your body responds to the heat by activating the glands in your airways, which makes your eyes water and your nose run, according to "The Doctor's Book of Food Remedies." However, the sudden shock to your system is not the only way peppers act as a decongestant. The book's author, Selene Yeager, quotes Dr. Irwin Zimmit, MD, who says that capsaicin, the chemical which gives spicy peppers their heat, is very similar to guaifenesin, the active ingredient in some over-the-counter decongestant medications.
Chili Peppers
When you eat a chili pepper, your body responds to the heat by activating the glands in your airways, which makes your eyes water and your nose run, according to "The Doctor's Book of Food Remedies." However, the sudden shock to your system is not the only way peppers act as a decongestant. The book's author, Selene Yeager, quotes Dr. Irwin Zimmit, MD, who says that capsaicin, the chemical which gives spicy peppers their heat, is very similar to guaifenesin, the active ingredient in some over-the-counter decongestant medications.
Tea with Grated Ginger and Honey
Tea contains several compounds which can help relieve sinus pressure. According to Selene Yeager, tea contains theophylline, which helps break up congestion. Ginger, reports Yeager, contains compounds that fight inflammation, and honey, according to nutritionist Janet Macorro, PhD, who was quoted in "The Doctor's Book of Food Remedies," has antibiotic properties, which could help keep sinus pressure from turning into a full-fledged sinus infection.
References
- US News and World Report: Stuffy Nose or Sinus Problems? Here's a Fix.
- New York Times: Sinusitis
- Family Doctor: Colds and the Flu
- Mayo Clinic: Common Cold: Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- "The Doctor's Book of Food Remedies"; Selene Yeager; 2006
