Diet for controlling chronic sinusitis
Dear Donovan,
I’m a woman in my late 20s and from about my third year of high school I have had bad sinusitis. In my younger years I visited my family doctor numerous times and received treatment but my sinusitis persisted. I had just written it off and decided that it was just something that I’d have to live with for the rest of my life. There are days, however, that it’s just very bothersome. Could you assist me with dietary methods to get it controlled?
Sinusitis is quite a bothersome condition which is often associated with pain and pressure in the face, as well as headaches, stiffness, runny nose, sore throat and other things. This condition usually interferes with the drainage of mucus and causes mucus build-up which may interfere with proper breathing.
For you, chronic sinusitis (long-term) started in high school. Commonly, chronic sinusitis affects young and middle-aged adults and may also affect children. Chronic sinusitis is usually brought about by respiratory tract infection, growth in the sinuses (nasal polyps), allergies, hay fever, and problems with the nasal septum (wall between nostrils).
There are some risk factors associated with sinusitis. These may include immune system disorders and regular exposure to pollutants, for example, smoke and dust.
In general, sinusitis can be controlled by avoiding respiratory infections, managing allergies, and possibly using humidifiers.
Regarding your diet, I am going to suggest that you do a detox programme. This will help to remove some of the toxins from your body. In addition, although you did not mention what your diet is like, I would suggest some dietary changes.
I am going to suggest that you try and eat foods rich in vitamin C to help your mucus problem. In addition, adding ginger, garlic, pineapple and chilli peppers to your daily diet could be beneficial.
Also, adding more high-fibre foods, Omega 3 fatty acids and healthy saturated fats such as coconut oil could also be helpful. Drinking vegetable juices, coconut water and purified water might also help you to control the sinusitis.
Avoid possible allergens such as dairy, eggs, wheat and corn, as well as refined carbohydrates such as white rice and flour and all foods with refined sugar. As much as possible, avoid fried foods, pastries and sodas. These are mucus forming. Avoiding sweet fruit juices, MSG (monosodium glutamate) and caffeinated beverages are also good.
Eating foods which will make the body alkaline is also good.
In addition, exercises such as biking and walking could also be added to your programme. But it is important to avoid those exercises that will give a weird feeling in the head.
Good luck!
We will answer your weight-related questions
Are you struggling to lose weight, or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, 39 Lady Musgrave Road. Call him at 876-286-1363. E-mail questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com.
