Rhinitis: what to eat and what to avoid to stay away from this discomfort

If you suffer from allergic rhinitis, it is possible that you always have in mind a list of suspects responsible for causing the discomfort, such as mites, dust, pollen, pet hair, among others. But, have you ever stopped to think that your food can also be to blame?

According to the otorhinolaryngologist at CEMA Hospital Marcelo Mello, this is a possibility that you should definitely consider, even when treating an allergic crisis.

“Currently, with the development of research in the field of immunoallergology, it is already known that the nutritional aspect is participatory in the process of prevention and cure of some respiratory diseases”, he explains. This is because, while some foods have an anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, fluidizing and decongestant action that improve the immune system, others, such as highly seasoned foods, activate the allergic response, worsening itching, sneezing, nasal congestion and lack of breath. air.

Below you will find a list made by the specialist with tips on what to eat and what to avoid to stay away from rhinitis.

Foods that improve the discomforts of rhinitis

Starting with the glass half full, that is, the foods indicated for those who suffer from the problem. Marcelo Mello mentions that vitamins, minerals, oils and enzymes are the most beneficial substances, as they are natural expectorants that also help in the elimination of mucus. See below where to find them:

Water: present in ten out of ten lists of foods beneficial to health, water acts, in the case of allergic rhinitis, as a moisturizer for the body, which will help to fluidize secretions and lubricate the mucous membranes.

Grains and seeds: because they contain flavonoids, a substance with an anti-inflammatory effect, foods such as chestnuts, flaxseeds, among others, are allies in the treatment of rhinitis.

Teas: in addition to the feeling of warmth and relaxation they provide, teas also have flavonoids, which means more anti-inflammatory action.

Fish the secret lies in Omega-3, a substance that protects the airways and helps fight inflammation. Therefore, give preference to fish rich in the substance, such as tuna, sardines and salmon.

Citrus fruits: thanks to the presence of vitamin C and antioxidants in abundance, fruits like lemon and orange are allies in strengthening the immune system.

Fruits and vegetables: these foods are always healthy, but in the case of allergic rhinitis, give preference to darker green vegetables, as they contain chlorophyll, an antioxidant substance. Another good option is to consume carrots, mangoes, acerola and pumpkin, as they are also antioxidants thanks to carotenoids.

Garlic and onion: according to Marcelo Mello, the two ingredients should always be used as a seasoning, as they have enzymes capable of fighting bacterial, viral and fungal infections, a good thing for those who have allergic rhinitis.

Pineapple: among all fruits, pineapple stands out because it contains bromelain, a substance that reduces inflammation and nasal congestion.

Ginger: it is no wonder that it is present in many cold and flu remedies. This is due to the fact that ginger has an astringent and expectorant action.

Honey: another presence almost guaranteed in cold and flu remedies, honey has bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, fungicidal and expectorant properties, that is, a full plate for those who suffer from allergic rhinitis.

It is worth emphasizing that these foods serve both to fight and to prevent rhinitis crises. Therefore, the ideal is to include them in everyday meals, especially those of everyday use, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, garlic and onions. When the rhinitis “attacks”, also reinforce the consumption of specific foods, such as pineapple, honey and ginger.

Foods That Worse Rhinitis Discomforts

Well, saying that diet influences rhinitis means that it can also have a negative effect depending on the foods consumed. In general, Marcelo says that “very hot foods or very spicy and acidic foods activate the allergic response through histamine, which has a powerful vasodilator action”. As an example, he cites the capsaicin present in pepper, which, as many people know from experience, “makes the nose run, itchy, clogged, in addition to causing sneezing”, he says.

Check out other foods that should be avoided by those who suffer from rhinitis:

Wheat and cereals: Foods like barley, corn, oats, rye and wheat flour pose a double problem for people with rhinitis. On the one hand, vacuuming them can trigger respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. On the other hand, its consumption increases mucus production due to gluten.

Sweets: especially those with chocolate. More than sugar, the big problem is that these foods often contain other potentially allergenic ingredients such as milk, soy, tree nuts and peanuts, which can inflame the nasal mucosa.

Alcoholic beverages: they cause vasodilation and nasal obstruction, that is, it is better to stick with water, tea and lemon juice.

Milk and dairy products: the blame for the worsening of rhinitis with the consumption of these foods is casein, a protein that, by making the mucus thicker, makes it difficult to treat respiratory diseases.

Processed foods: that they are bad for health as a whole is nothing new. In the case of rhinitis, sulfites, nitrites, preservatives and dyes present in canned goods, sausages, fast foods, etc. cause worsening of allergy and respiratory distress.

Of course, just because you have allergic rhinitis doesn’t mean you’ll never be able to eat chocolate, have a beer, or have lunch at the mall’s food court. The recommendation is to make a moderate consumption of these foods, in addition to avoiding them in some situations, such as on trips or before a presentation at work, for example.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.