Diet Tips for Better Breathing
Nasal polyps are small, non-cancerous growths in the nasal passages that can cause breathing difficulties. Certain foods may aggravate these polyps, making symptoms worse.
Foods That Can Worsen Nasal Polyps
Sugary Treats
Sugary foods, such as candy, pastries and soft drinks, can lead to inflammation in your body. Excess sugar can also weaken your immune system, making it harder to combat the infections that can make nasal polyps more bothersome.
Dairy Products
Milk, cheese and yogurt can increase mucus production in your body. This extra mucus can clog your nasal passages, making nasal polyps more problematic. Reducing or avoiding dairy might help alleviate some symptoms.
Spicy Foods
Hot peppers, spicy sauces and similar foods can cause your body to produce more mucus. This additional mucus can irritate your nasal passages and make polyps more uncomfortable.
Processed Meats
Items like bacon, sausage and deli meats often contain preservatives and additives that can cause inflammation. This inflammation can make nasal polyps larger or more painful. These meats are also high in sodium, which can dry out your nasal passages, making breathing even more difficult.
Gluten-Containing Foods
Wheat, barley and rye contain gluten, which can cause inflammation in those sensitive to it. If you're gluten-sensitive, consuming these foods could worsen your nasal polyps.
Alcohol
Alcohol, especially in beverages like beer and wine, can cause swelling in your nasal passages. This swelling can make breathing difficult if you have nasal polyps. Additionally, alcohol can trigger allergic reactions, further aggravating your symptoms.
How to Manage Nasal Polyps
If you suffer from nasal polyps, it’s important to seek medical advice for treatment. Here are some typical treatment options:
- Medications: Doctors may prescribe pills to reduce inflammation and treat any underlying infections.
- Surgery: If other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be required to remove the polyps.
- Nasal sprays: Steroid sprays can help reduce swelling and shrink the polyps.
- Avoid triggers: In addition to avoiding the foods mentioned, it’s important to steer clear of allergens like dust, pollen and smoke, which can worsen polyps.
Smart Eating for Better Health
By making careful food choices and following your doctor's recommendations, you can better manage nasal polyps and improve your breathing.