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The Best Vitamins for Sinuses

Vitamins are essential for maintaining sinus health, especially if you are prone to infections (sinusitis) or suffer from allergies. While vitamins may help treat existing sinus problems, those with acute or chronic sinusitis should consult their physician, who may prescribe antibiotics, decongestants, antihistamines or steroid nasal sprays to effectively treat the condition.

  1. Vitamin A

    • Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes healthy cells and tissues in the body. This includes helping build healthy mucous membranes in the nose and throat, according to Nutrition Science News. Vitamin A helps prevent colds that may lead to sinus infections, but there is insufficient evidence to support claims it can effectively treat existing colds when taken in large doses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recommended daily allowance of vitamin A (0.7mg a day for men and 0.6mg a day for women) is best obtained from vitamin A-rich foods such as eggs, milk, cheese and liver.

    Vitamin C

    • Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that, when taken in high doses, can help prevent and alleviate respiratory infections that can lead to sinusitis, according to Life Extension. One five-year clinical trial indicated that taking 500mg of vitamin C daily reduced the frequency of colds, while another found that 1,000mg a day reduced the frequency of colds by 45 percent. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids may also help shrink sinus membrane swelling, according to Nutrition Science News. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli and red peppers. Taking more than the recommended daily dose of vitamin C (60mg) can cause indigestion and diarrhea.

    Vitamin E

    • The immune-boosting effects of Vitamin E may improve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, which will decrease your chances of developing sinusitis. Vitamin E supplementation has also been shown to reduce hay fever symptoms when taken in high doses (800mg) in conjunction with regular anti-allergy medication, according to study results published by PubMed. Vitamin E still plays an important role in anti-inflammatory processes and immune enhancement at the recommended daily dose of 15mg for men and women or when obtained from foods such as green leafy vegetables, whole grains, lean meat and nuts.

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