If you have a sinus infection, several foods will help to relieve symptoms and reduce swelling and inflammation. These include anti-inflammatory foods, spicy foods, fruits, and herbal teas. However, you should also limit your processed food intake, as they can worsen the condition.
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Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Eating various foods for sinus infection that are high in antioxidants can help you combat it and other inflammations. You’ll also get a boost to your immune system and skin. The best part is that you don’t need a drastic lifestyle change to enjoy the benefits of antioxidant-rich foods.
A sinus infection is an inflammation of the sinuses, a hollow cavity connected to the nose. Usually, the sinuses contain air and mucus, but they can become inflamed or swollen, resulting in pain and fever. This inflammation can lead to an abscess or other infection if left untreated.
Fruits
A healthy diet can help your body fight inflammation and sinus problems. It can help boost your immune system, reduce pain and improve skin tone. There are many foods to choose from, but some are especially helpful for your sinuses. These foods are easy to find and tastier than you might think.
Fruits have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve your symptoms and improve your overall health. You can add them to your meals, or you can take supplements. Turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper are also excellent anti-inflammatory foods.
Spicy Foods
If you are suffering from a sinus infection, you may wonder whether spicy foods are safe for consumption. These foods contain the compound capsaicin, which is known to open up the nasal passages and cause mucus discharge. Although spicy foods do not cure sinus infections, they will help you feel better and allow your body to eliminate thick mucus.
Spices like ginger have antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help treat sinusitis. They also help evident nasal cavities and are helpful as natural decongestants.
Herbal Tea
Herbal tea can help with the pain and inflammation caused by sinusitis. It contains natural compounds that reduce mucus production and support the body’s defenses against the pathogens that cause sinusitis. It is an excellent food to include in your diet for quick relief.
Inhaling the steam helps to soothe the sinus tissues and clear the sinuses. You can also use warm washcloths to cover your nose and cheeks for extra relief.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help treat sinus infections. It also works to lubricate the nasal passageways and restore the lining to its natural state. It can be applied to dry sinus cavities with a clean small finger or Q-tip. You can repeat this procedure several times during the day and before going to bed.
Coconut oil is also rich in lauric acid, which has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. The fungus lives in the mucus lining of the sinuses and can trigger an immune response in people prone to chronic sinusitis.
Honey
Whether honey is a healthy food for sinus infection is a debated question. In some studies, it may work to treat sinus infections. However, if bacteria cause the infection, honey may not be effective. Other remedies, like saline nasal spray, can work better.
A healthy diet will boost the immune system, and foods high in vitamin C can help cure sinusitis. However, avoid sugar-rich foods, as sugar depletes white blood cells. Additionally, avoid refined grains and dairy products, which produce mucus. Also, salt dehydrates the body and may slow down the healing process.
