Anti-Mucus Diet: Top 10 Foods That Cause Mucus (2023)

Anti-Mucus Diet: Top 10 Foods That Cause Mucus (2023)
Mucus is a thick, viscous substance that lines the respiratory tract and plays a crucial role in protecting our lungs and digestive system.
However, excessive mucus production can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and may signal an underlying health issue.
One often overlooked factor that contributes to increased mucus production is the foods we eat in our diet. The wrong types of foods can trigger our body to produce more mucus than necessary, resulting in health issues and unwanted symptoms.
In this article, we’ll look at the most common foods that cause mucus and phlegm buildup, providing you with the knowledge to make informed dietary choices to avoid mucus-causing foods.
Foods that Cause Mucus
Uncovering the foods that trigger mucus production is essential for managing symptoms and maintaining a healthy respiratory system. The most common foods that cause mucus include the following:
Bread
Processed meat
Sugar
Milk
Fast food
Soda
Cheese
Eggs
Corn
Sodium
Keep reading to learn about the specific foods that trigger mucus production and the science behind their effects on our bodies.
Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll be able to make informed dietary choices and better manage mucus-related symptoms.
1. Bread
Bread is a staple in many diets, which is why you may be saddened to hear that it can cause an increase in mucus production.
The study found that people who ate more than two slices of white bread per day had higher rates of these symptoms.
Researchers also found a link between bread consumption and asthma. Their studies found that people who ate bread were more likely to experience asthma symptoms, such as wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.
2. Processed Meat
Processed meat is made up of meat that has been treated in some way to preserve it or enhance its flavor. This includes bacon, ham, hot dogs, sausage, and lunch meat.
Researchers found that eating processed meat was linked with an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is a condition that makes it difficult to breathe.
The study found that for every 10 grams of processed meat eaten per day, the risk of COPD increased by 7%. One of the unfortunate side effects of COPD is excess mucus production.
3. Sugar
It’s been well-documented that sugar is not something that should be included in a healthy diet. But, to add fuel to the fire, a study from 2014 found a link between sugar consumption and increased mucus production.
The study looked at the effects of sugar on nasal mucus in healthy people and people with asthma. It demostrated that both groups produced more mucus after eating sugar.
The study also found that people with asthma had a greater response to sugar, producing more mucus than healthy participants. This suggests that sugar may play a role in exacerbating asthma symptoms and making the condition worse.
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4. Milk
Milk is a well-known source of calcium and other beneficial nutrients. However, milk and other dairy products have also been shown to cause mucus.
A study found that drinking milk increased the production of mucus in the nose and throat. The study found that participants who drank milk had more mucus in their noses when they blew their noses, and they were also more likely to have a sore throat.
Milk was also linked with an increase in the number of colds people experienced.
5. Fast Food
It’s no secret that fast food is unhealthy. This is well-documented. However, many are surprised to hear that fast foods increases the production of mucus.
A study found that eating fast food was linked with an increased risk of developing asthma. The study found that for every extra serving of fast food eaten per week, the risk of asthma increased by 18%.
One of the unfortunate side effects of asthma is excess mucus production. In addition, most fast foods are fried in vegetable oils, which only make matters worse.
6. Soda
Just like fast food, soda has also been linked with an increased risk of developing asthma, which has been supported by multiple studies.
Researchers found that every extra serving of soda that you drink per week increases your risk of asthma by 21%. To make matters worse, most people drink soda while washing down that greasy (but often delicious) fast food meal.
7. Cheese
Multiple studies have shown that cheese causes a release of histamines in your body, which results in inflammation of your membranes, including those that produce mucus.
Researchers found that people who ate cheese four or more times a week were almost twice as likely to experience nasal congestion as those who didn’t eat cheese at all.
So, if you’re looking to avoid congestion and excess mucus production, it might be a good idea to skip the cheese plate.
8. Eggs
Eggs are a common ingredient in many dishes and are a good source of protein and other nutrients. However, unfortunately, some researchers believe that eggs can cause an increase in mucus production.
One theory is that the properties in eggs can trigger the production of histamine, which in turn triggers the production of mucus in your body.
Another possibility is that eggs contain a protein called ovalbumin, which can cause an immune reaction in some people. When the body perceives this protein as a threat, it creates antibodies to attack it.
These antibodies also cause inflammation, which can lead to increased mucus production.
This is not to say that you should avoid eggs altogether. But, if you’re experiencing problems with mucus, it may be a good idea to be mindful and consider limiting your intake.
9. Corn
Corn is a popular food item in many cuisines around the world. While it may seem like a harmless ingredient, some researchers believe that it can cause an increase in mucus production.
A study found that subjects who ate corn protein had increased mucus along with more sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. The study also found that the subjects who ate corn protein were more likely to experience an asthma attack.
While the study found that corn may cause an increase in mucus production, it is not clear if this is a major concern for most people.
More research is needed in this area, but if you’re worried about corn causing mucus buildup, you may consider eliminating it from your diet.
10. Sodium
Most Americans are consuming far too much sodium in their diets. In fact, many of the common foods that we eat are packed with sodium, and that could lead to an increase in the production of mucus.
Sodium causes inflammation in the body, which can lead to swelling. This causes the production of mucus to increase as a natural defense mechanism.
A study found that participants who ate salty foods had more mucus and were also more likely to have a sore throat. Sodium was also linked with an increase in the number of colds people experienced.
While it’s essential to include some salt in your diet, it’s also important to be mindful of how much you’re eating. If you’re experiencing problems with mucus, it may be a good idea to limit your intake of salty foods.
How to Reduce Mucus and Phlegm After Eating
Reducing mucus and phlegm after eating can be accomplished through a combination of dietary and lifestyle changes. Some strategies to consider include:
Mindful food choices
Hydration
Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Chew food thoroughly
Avoid lying down immediately after eating
Practice good food hygiene
Consider digestive enzymes
Mindful Food Choices
One of the most effective ways to reduce mucus and phlegm after eating is by paying close attention to the foods you consume.
As mentioned earlier, certain foods can trigger mucus production, so avoiding or minimizing your intake of these foods can make a significant difference.
FAQ
What is the Best Way to Reduce Mucus Production?
There are a few things you can do to reduce mucus production. Avoiding foods that cause mucus is a good place to start.
Drinking plenty of fluids can also help thin out the mucus and make it easier to expel. Saline nasal sprays can help clear the nasal passages and reduce mucus production. Steam inhalation can also help loosen mucus and make it easier to expel.
What Food Should I Stay Away From if My Nose is Runny?
If you’re experiencing problems with mucus, it may be a good idea to limit your intake of the foods that were mentioned in this article, including dairy products, eggs, corn, and sodium-rich foods.
When Do the Mucus Membranes Heal?
Mucus membranes usually heal within a few days. However, if you’re experiencing problems with mucus, it’s best to speak with a doctor, as they can help determine the root cause and offer treatment options.
Do Eggs Cause Mucus?
Yes, eggs contain properties that can trigger the release of histamine, which can result in increased mucus production.
Eggs also contain ovalbumin, which is a protein that causes inflammation, resulting in more mucus being produced. Therefore, eggs should be avoided in individuals with obstructive lung diseases, such as asthma.
Why do I get Mucus After Eating?
Mucus production after eating can result from various factors, including the consumption of mucus-producing foods, allergies, food intolerances, or underlying health conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Paying attention to your diet and identifying any triggers can help manage mucus production.
What are the Foods That Cause Phlegm?
Foods that cause phlegm after eating are similar to those that cause mucus production. Dairy products, refined carbohydrates, sugar, red meat, fried foods, and high-histamine foods are among the main culprits.
Which Foods Cause Both Mucus and Inflammation?
Dairy products, refined carbohydrates, sugar, red meat, fried foods, and processed foods can trigger both mucus production and inflammation in the body.
Does Dairy Cause Mucus?
Yes, dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, are known to increase mucus production for many people. However, individual reactions can vary, and some people might not experience any increase in mucus after consuming dairy.
Why is it Important to Avoid Mucus-Causing Foods?
These foods are known to cause an increase in mucus production. If you’re experiencing problems with mucus, it may be a good idea to limit your intake of these foods.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the connection between diet and mucus production is vital for those looking to alleviate symptoms and achieve a healthier lifestyle.
By avoiding or reducing the consumption of common mucus-causing foods such as dairy products, refined carbohydrates, and certain high-histamine foods, individuals can actively take control of their mucus production and maintain a better quality of life.
While not all mucus is bad, becoming more mindful of our food choices and observing how our bodies respond can make a significant difference in our overall well-being.
Keep in mind that it’s best to speak with a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing problems with mucus, as they can help determine the root cause and offer treatment options for your individual condition.
Written by:
John Landry, BS, RRT
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
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Medical Disclaimer: The information provided by Respiratory Therapy Zone is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a physician with any questions that you may have regarding a medical condition.