nasal congestion is one of the most uncomfortable symptoms of a cold. In addition to drugs, diet plays an important role in reducing nasal congestion and improving mucus secretion. Nutritionist Aayesha Parveen (Kinder Obstetrics Hospital & Obstetrics Center, Bangalore) shares foods to eat and avoid to help the body recover faster.
The best foods to help control nasal congestion
Soup and warm broth: Hot soup, especially chicken or vegetable soup, helps dilute mucus, helping the body easily excrete and reduce nasal congestion. Warm soup soothes the throat, keeps the body hydrated and improves mucus circulation, says expert Aayesha.
Ginger: Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. It helps clear the nose, reduce irritation and limit mucus secretion. Fresh ginger can be used in tea, warm water or soup to reduce symptoms faster.
Turmeric milk: Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidants, which are very beneficial for the immune system. Turmeric milk (haldi doodh) helps soothe the respiratory tract and helps control nasal congestion.
Spicy foods (used in moderation): Tet, wasabi or cayenne pepper can help temporarily clear the nose by thinning mucus. However, if you have sore throat or reflux, you should limit it to avoid making the condition worse.
Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons and tangerines are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost immunity. They do not increase mucus production as many people think, but also help the body fight infections.
Honey: Honey has natural soothing and antibacterial properties, which are good for the respiratory tract. When combined with ginger or warm water, the effectiveness is even higher.
Foods that make nasal congestion worse
Dairy products (for some people): Milk does not directly cause mucus, but for some people, it can make available mucus specializations, making nasal congestion worse. If you are sensitive, temporarily avoid milk, cheese, and ice cream when you have a cold.
Fried, greasy foods: greasy foods slow digestion and increase inflammatory response, making cold symptoms worse and causing lethargy.
High-sugar snacks: Sugar can temporarily weaken the immune system and increase inflammation. sweets, canned juices, candy or chocolate can all increase recovery time.
Cold drinks and ice cream: Cold drinks can irritate the throat and increase mucus secretion in some people. When you have a cold, warm drinks are safer.
Processed foods: Fast food, instant noodles, packaging contain many preservatives and additives, which weaken the immune system and slow down the recovery process.
Alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine dehydrate the body, making mucus thicken and difficult to escape, causing a long nasal passage.
