Top foods to help fight nasal polyps
Nasal polyps is a respiratory condition in which a benign growth develops along the line of the sinuses. This growth, while benign, starts to affect airflow and breathing. If an individual suffers from chronic inflammation, they are at high risk of developing nasal polyps, and can be triggered by common environmental allergens. However, some foods help fight off nasal polyps, so let’s take a look at what can be had with this condition.
Mushrooms
This is a superfood for fighting off nasal polyps because of its selenium content. Selenium is an essential antioxidant that is found to reduce inflammation in the body. This is especially helpful during any flare-ups caused by nasal polyps. Some other foods, which are also rich in selenium, include fish like cod and halibut, Brazil nuts, and some specific types of red meat.
Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its vast variety of health benefits, and one of these is its anti-inflammatory properties, which help those dealing with nasal polyps symptoms. You can add turmeric to most curry recipes and even consider adding it to some warm milk. However, make sure that you only add a pinch of it, otherwise too much turmeric can add a bitter taste to the food.
Cayenne pepper
This is a popular ingredient in many spicy recipes and can easily be found in the market. Research states that cayenne pepper contains a compound called capsaicin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Not just this, but the pepper is also known for its rich source of beta carotene, potassium, vitamins like B6, C, and E, and also flavonoids. These are all essential nutrients to help deal with inflammation in the body. They also play a huge part in keeping the immune system healthy to fight off any infections and symptoms. Adding a pinch of this to recipes is recommended to reap its several nutritional benefits.
Garlic
Known for its healing properties, it is no wonder that garlic is on the list. It has been used in ancient traditional healing recipes, and it contains compounds that help fight off infections and inflammation and also help to boost the immune system of the body. Garlic is a very popular home remedy when it comes to removing the excess mucus that makes breathing difficult and obstructive. The compound found in garlic, called allicin, is responsible for killing the harmful allergens that cause respiratory issues. Being an anti-allergen, it helps in managing nasal polyps symptoms effectively.
Salmon
Fish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, as is well known. However, it is notable that omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them a great food source to help fight nasal polyps symptoms. Not only salmon, but other fish, like sardines, mackerel, and halibut, are also on the list for being superfoods for nasal polyps. While fish contain the essential omega 3s, they also have omega 6. It is studied that omega 6 is also healthy for the body; however, getting too much omega 6 can trigger nasal polyps, so speak to your doctor to understand the right ratio of fish to eat in a week.