Foods that Heal Sinusitis

Sinusitus is a common health problem characterized by inflamed and swollen nasal passages. Sinusitus can occur suddenly and temporarily or become chronic. In addition to swelling, you may experience tenderness in your eyes and forehead, ear or jaw pain, coughing, sore throat and reduced senses of taste and smell. In addition to medical treatments, cleaning your nasal passages and rest, certain foods may enhance healing from sinusitus. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian.

Whole Grains

Whole grains provide valuable amounts of vitamins, minerals and fiber. According to the "Nutrition Almanac" by John D. Kirschmann, the viruses and bacteria that contribute to sinusitis grow in an acidic digestive environment and foods such as whole grains help reduce the acidity in your digestive tract. For maximum benefits, replace refined carbohydrates, such as enriched breads, pasta, cereal and snack foods with whole grain equivalents most often. Examples of nutritious whole-grain foods include 100 percent whole-grain breads and cold cereals, whole-wheat pasta, steel-cut and old-fashioned oatmeal, pearled barley, brown rice, wild rice, quinoa and air-popped popcorn.

Probiotics

Probiotics are healthy bacteria that enhance digestive health and help prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria. Probiotics may benefit you if you are taking antibiotics for sinusitus and help lower your risk for developing allergies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Valuable sources of probiotics include yogurt with live active cultures, kefir, buttermilk, fermented soy products and cabbage, sauerkraut and fortified foods and beverages. Incorporate probiotics into your diet regularly for optimum nutritional benefits and to help prevent recurrent sinus infections.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables provide rich amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help your body protect itself from infections and disease. Though all fruits and vegetables provide benefits, Kirschmann recommends leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, in particular when you're faced with sinusitus. Additional antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, cantaloupe, tomatoes, broccoli, bell peppers, cabbage, carrots and sweet potatoes. Foods and beverages made with fruits and vegetables, such as broth-based soup and pure fruit or vegetables juices, may also help improve your symptoms by providing nutrients, enhancing hydration and, in the case of soup, providing steam that can help clear your nasal passages.