I recently posted a recipe on Facebook for my Pine-lime Splice (pineapple based smoothie) and mentioned that the bioflavonoids in pineapple make it a great food to eat if you’re snotty. Well, there are obviously lots of people struggling with this recent spate of nasty flu bugs about, because the post was extremely popular.
So I thought I’d better share my favourite foods which may help to support your body to clear mucus – you know, that post viral phlegm that’s sometimes difficult to shift.
Fruits that support mucus excretion
My number one choice is Pineapple. The bioflavonoid bromelain in pineapple is a proteolytic enzyme (meaning it breaks down proteins). It is thought to boost immune function and has anti-inflammatory properties which help to open up the airways. In nutritional medicine, bromelain is often used to support sinus conditions (reduces the swelling and mucus production) and helps to clear both upper and lower respiratory congestion.
Other fruits I love to support immune function are berries and citrus fruits especially grapefruit. Grapefruit is wonderful for breaking down excessive mucus and luckily is in season right now. I also love lemon or lime juice in warm water to hydrate (which helps expel mucus) and support immune function. This recipe for Immune Tea is a favourite also.
Vegetables
Whilst fruit is good, vegetables are even better. Your dietary choices should be firmly focussed on consuming a range of fresh vegetables, lightly steamed or raw if you’d prefer. Fresh, in-season greens, are especially powerful immune boosters as they contain chlorophyll (ideas for including greens in you diet here). Include as much garlic and onion as possible – both are well known to support your immune function. The quercetin (another bioflavonoid) in onions is anti-inflammatory and also helps to break down mucus.
Warm and Spicy
Heat helps to thin and expel mucus. Warm vegetable based soups made with immune boosting bone broth (recipe here) is a must. Using warming herbs and spices in your meals like cumin, ginger, cayenne, chilli, turmeric, oregano, thyme, sage and cinnamon is a great idea. Herbal teas are a lovely way to stay hydrated and help to expel mucus – I especially love ginger, turmeric, chamomile and peppermint.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
ACV is very antibacterial and helps to break down mucus congestion. I only use an organic, unpasteurized ACV (Bragg brand). If you like the taste, add a teaspoon to your herbal tea.
Oily Fish
Omega-3 rich fish like salmon, tuna, herring and sardines are my preferred sources of protein to reduce mucus. Omega-3’s support immune function and reduce inflammation and are a good choice to reduce your mucus load.
Foods that are best avoided
On the top of my list are (surprise, surprise) high sugar, processed foods as they impede immune function and promote inflammation. It is also worth avoiding dairy and soy products for the time being as both can be mucus forming. Instead, focus on fresh whole foods, with an emphasis on seasonal vegetables. Please also note that canned or processed fruit and vegetables offer none of the previously mentioned benefits, so please stick with fresh only.
**Obviously please seek the help of a medical practitioner in the case of serious or ongoing symptoms. The above information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment.
Louise Bennett says
some really great info to help folks recover from the nasty colds and flus making the rounds.
Georgia Harding says
Thanks Louise – yes lots of illness about at the moment for sure G x
Natasha Paul says
Hi Georgia, I recently visited Tracy Cook (on your recommendation) and she also said significantly increase consumption of all orange fruit and veggies…sweet potato, carrot, pumpkin, apricot etc…as the beta carotene is really important during times of illness. Do you agree?
Georgia Harding says
Yes any vegetables are perfect and really essential when you are unwell, a variety of colours is good G x
Jill Roberts says
Great information – didn’t know pineapple was so important in reducing mucous.
Georgia Harding says
Very welcome Jill, glad you enjoyed it G x
Tracey says
Great reminder Georgia! Thanks for posting. There’s a few extra tips I didn’t know about! X T
Georgia Harding says
You’re welcome Tracey Gx
Damian Torrisi says
I feel like I’m sick right now but I know I’m not. I’m a snot making factory, please help me.
Georgia Harding says
Hi Damian. If your congestion is chronic (not an acute response like when you have a cold) it’s really important to seek professional help. When I was practicing I saw a lot of patients in the same boat and there are heaps of herbs that are very effective in resolving chronic congestion. All the best
Kathie GREEN says
I’ve found this website useful, I’ve a chronic condition of the nose, perforated nasal septum treated by a button insertion. This has left me with a problem of making excessive mucous which is worse at night, I use a nasal wash regularly. Interested to learn of good and bad foods in managing mucous build up. I’m getting desperate to know how to manage it. I’ve a low immune system with rheumatoid arthritis and medication to treat it.
Georgia Harding says
Hi Kathie. I’m not able to offer individual advice but from what you’ve said, I’d be advising you look to primarily support your gut health (the foundation to immune health). I have loads of posts under this category https://wellnourished.com.au/category/living-well/digestion-and-food-intolerance/
If you can access to a good naturopath this would be enormously helpful too, all the best G x
Jamie says
This is truly helpful, thanks.
Georgia Harding says
You’re welcome Jamie 🙂