Foods to Avoid When Congested

Congestion can happen in response to colds, influenza, sinus infections, irritants and allergies. The tissues and blood vessels inside the nasal passages become swollen with excess fluid. The last thing you want when you are congested is more congestion, but many common foods can actually increase congestion. Food allergies are actually the most under-rated cause of inflammation and congestion, according to the Center For Food Allergies. If you have problems with congestion, avoid the following foods.

Dairy

• Milk and other dairy products an increase congestion.

  Dairy is one of the most common undiagnosed food allergies. Those with lactose intolerance, or sensitivity to dairy, will typically have chronic congestion when frequently consuming dairy products. Dairy promotes the production of mucous, and even if you do not have a dairy intolerance, you may experience increased congestion when consuming these products. It is best to avoid these products if you are experiencing any type of congestion.

Refined Sugar

• Avoid table sugar if you are feeling congested.

  Refined sugar should also be avoided if you are congested. Refined sugars, such as white table sugar and high fructose corn syrup, disrupt the balance of hormones in the body and promote the growth of bacteria. To improve congestion, products containing refined sugar should be dramatically reduced, or eliminated.

Gluten

• Bread and other wheat products contain gluten.

  Gluten is also a very common food intolerance that is widely undiagnosed. Gluten is a protein found in all products which contain wheat, rye, barley and spelt. A symptom of gluten intolerance is congestion and post-nasal drip. Any products containing gluten should be avoided when experiencing congestion.

Tips

• Individuals suffering from chronic sinus problems and congestion should consider an elimination diet. An elimination diet involves avoiding foods that are commonly known to cause food intolerance, such as, gluten, dairy and soy, for a two- to three-week period. After this period is up, you can slowly begin adding each food back in to your diet, one at at time. If symptoms return, there is a good chance you have a food intolerance. Your doctor can also test you for myriad food sensitivities and intolerances.