If you've ever experienced a sinus infection, cold, bronchitis or asthma, you are no stranger to mucus. Your body produces the slippery substance to prevent dryness and fend off harmful bacteria. When an illness triggers excessive production, however, it can cause bothersome symptoms, such as congestion, sinus pressure and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing. Although milk provides valuable nutrients, it might trigger or worsen mucus production in some people.
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Milk does not cause mucus production in healthy people, according to MayoClinic.com internist Dr. James Steckelberg. It can, however, thicken mucus, making it more bothersome. If you have a milk allergy, its consumption might trigger allergic symptoms, such as mucus buildup and a runny nose. Milk might also worsen mucus-related symptoms of cystic fibrosis -- a chronic, genetic disease that affects your sweat- and mucus-producing glands.
Potential Benefits
Frozen dairy products might help ease throat pain, according to Steckelberg, which might accompany colds, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions. Milk is also a valuable source of protein, which promotes immune function, and vital micronutrients, including calcium and vitamin D. Drinking milk can also help guard against tiredness, headaches, dizziness and other symptoms of dehydration.
Alternatives
If you do not tolerate dairy products or find that they worsen your mucus-related symptoms, dairy-free milk alternatives, such as soy, rice and almond milks, might provide valuable alternatives. For heightened benefits, choose calcium-fortified nondairy milk products. Fortified orange juice contains more calcium per serving than milk, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Leafy green vegetables, tofu, almonds and canned salmon are also dairy-free and calcium-rich. For maintained hydration, consume water, pure juices, caffeine free herbal tea and broth-based soups.
Helpful Foods
Certain foods might help reduce mucus production, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, including garlic, watercress, horseradish, celery, pickles, lemon, tea and anti-inflammatory oils. Top sources of anti-inflammatory oils include seeds, nuts and coldwater fish, such as mackerel, salmon, halibut and herring. Consuming plentiful amounts of antioxidants can help ensure strong immune system function. Foods particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, bell peppers, leafy greens and whole grains.
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