Constant headaches, nausea, and sinus pressure, everyone who suffers from sinus infection knows how unpleasant it is. While it can happen anytime, suffering from sinus infections is pretty common in winter when the cold wind hits the face. However, you may be surprised to know that diet can also play an important role in relieving your sinus pain. While some foods like processed and fatty foods can trigger your sinus pain, others can help relieve it. If you are someone who suffers from sinus infection and pain, read on to know more about foods that you should consume when your pain flares up.
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Chicken soup can help relieve your sinus pains.
Photo Credit: iStock
Here Are 5 Foods That You Should Consume When Your Sinus Infection Flares Up
1. Hot Liquids/Beverages
One of the best remedies for your sinus infections can be consuming hot liquids/beverages like soups or teas. Warm or hot liquids can help relieve your nasal congestion and respiratory infections as they soothe your nasal passage and thin out mucus. As per a lab study published in 2000, consuming chicken soup can help boost anti-inflammatory activities against infections. What's more, you can even add additional ingredients like ginger or turmeric to boost your immunity.
2. Citrus Fruits
Sinus infections can flare up when there is a fluid build-up in the air-filled pockets of the face. At this point, it is important to boost your immunity. According to a study published in 2011, fruits loaded with Vitamin C and citric acid, like oranges, lemon, grapefruit, and kiwi are best for your sinus infection and congestion since they are rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants can help reduce swelling, nasal congestion and inflammation by preventing mucous membrane damage.
3. Garlic and Ginger
Consuming ginger and garlic, and foods laden with it can help relieve your sinus infection and pain. Ginger is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory which can speed up the healing process and decrease pain. It also contains antihistamines which can help ease discomfort, allergies, and sinus inflammation. Garlic is rich in Sulphur compound that has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, known to fight viruses and reduce inflammation.
Garlic and ginger can help relieve your sinus infections.
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Honey
Naturally sweet and tasty, honey is packed with antibacterial properties. Postnasal drip can cause inflammation and a sore throat, but honey can help soothe your infection pain. People who suffer from chronic sinusitis have their mucous membranes inflamed, which can cause stuffy nose, headaches and difficulty in breathing. Having hot water with honey can help kill bacteria and soothe sinus pain. Plus, it can also help you with your sore throat and is kid-friendly.
5. Water
Even if you live alone or don't have the energy to prepare hot food for yourself, there is one thing that can help you relieve your sinus pain – water. When you suffer from sinus infections, your body needs hydration to thin your mucus buildup, so that it flows out easily. Having warm or just room temperature water will not just quench your thirst but also help relieve your sinus infection. Drinking plenty of water can also help prevent dry throat.
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Do you have any other suggestions to help relieve sinus pain? Let us know in the comments below!