The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 14 percent of Americans are diagnosed with a sinus infection annually. A sinus infection leads to swollen sinus cavities, causing severe congestion, sinus pressure pain and postnasal drip. People with sinus infections need to talk with a doctor about the best treatment options. During a sinus infection, avoid foods that will produce excess mucus, promote dehydration and possibly lead to greater sinus inflammation. Before modifying the diet, always check with a physician.
Avoid Mucus Producing Foods
Avoid diary and highly processed foods that increase mucus secretions, according to the Health Education Library for People. MSN News reports that diary products are known to increase nasal congestion. Diary products either increase the amount of mucus produced or cause existing mucus to thicken, leading to greater congestion. Replace cow's milk products with soy or rice-based products, such as soy milk or rice-based cheeses, during a sinus infection.
Highly refined foods containing starchy ingredients, white flour and white sugar need to be avoided. This would include fried foods, pies, candies and macaroni products. These foods increase the amount of mucus secretions and prolong a sinus infection.
Avoid Dehydrating Products
MayoClinic.com recommends avoiding the consumption of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages during a sinus infection. Caffeine and alcohol both deplete the body of its water saturation, leading to dehydration. A common symptom of dehydration is nasal congestion. Caffeinated beverages include coffee, tea and soda. Replace these types of beverages with increased water intake and hot herbal teas. Increased water intake will help thin and break-up mucus in the sinuses, promoting drainage. Hot herbal teas use warmth to thin mucus, much like melting fat in a frying pan.
Avoid Food Allergens
Food allergens could prolong a sinus infection, or even cause a new one, according to MedlinePlus. During a sinus infection, avoid ingesting any known food allergens. Common foods that cause allergic reactions in the body are tree nuts, shellfish, eggs, peanuts, cow's milk and wheat. Food allergies are diagnosed by an allergist, who will perform various tests to determine which foods are causing increased levels of IgE antibodies in the bloodstream. Food allergies can also lead to a life-threatening reaction, called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis symptoms include a drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate or a faint pulse. Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of anaphylaxis.
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