Mucus can be an irritating symptom when experienced on a consistent basis. Mucus can develop from environmental allergies or the common cold. A less known cause of mucus is food, where most often an allergy to a certain food will cause mucus buildup. Noticing mucus after eating is the first step in determining a food connection, followed by removing the possible offending foods to note a difference in symptoms. Work with your doctor to test for specific food allergies.
Milk
Although there is no scientific proof that milk in and of itself causes mucus, an allergy or intolerance to milk that produces mucus is common, according to weight-loss expert Lucy Beale in the book, "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Glycemic Index Weight Loss." She notes that food allergies can cause mucus buildup throughout the body and in the digestive system, due in part to your body's protective reaction to an allergen. A simple way to determine if you have an allergy or intolerance to dairy is to cut it out for a week and then reintroduce it, noting symptoms.
Wheat
Similar to dairy, wheat or the gluten found in wheat is a common allergen that can produce mucus. Dr. James Balch, in his book, "Prescription for Natural Cures," states that wheat is the unsuspected root behind many allergies, including those that seem to be triggered by the environment. He adds that wheat can generally be mucus-forming, and should be removed if you suffer from allergies, as the immune response places stress on your digestive system.
Refined Carbohydrates
Another type of food that may cause mucus is refined carbohydrates, including sugar. As Licensed Acupuncturist and Registered Herbalist Karen Vaughan notes on her website, in Chinese Medicine, excessive carbohydrates are known to cause phlegm "dampness" in the body and should be limited in the diet if you suffer from mucus buildup. She also notes that sugar is especially problematic since bacteria in the body use it for food, weakening the immune system further.
Fried Foods
Another type of food to avoid if you are suffering from excess mucus is fried foods. Fried foods increase mucus and one of the primary places the mucus accumulates is in the head, according to Susan Smith Jones, PhD in her book, "Health Bliss: 50 Revitalizing NatureFoods and Lifestyles Choices to Promote Vibrant Health." It is the oils and fats, which are often overcooked or trans fats, that stimulates mucus production, and therefore should especially be avoided when fighting a cold or allergies.
References
- "Complete Idiot's Guide to Glycemic Index Weight Loss"; Lucy Beale; 2005
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch; 2004
- Acupuncture and Herbs: Foods for Phlegm Dampness
- "Health Bliss: 50 Revitalizing NatureFoods and Lifestyles Choices to Promote Vibrant Health"; Susan Smith Jones; 2008
