Mucus is a sticky, slimy substance that is produced by the cells lining the respiratory tract. Although it may seem like a nuisance, mucus actually plays an important role in our health and in protecting the lungs and airways from infection and irritation.
The mucus traps bacteria and other particles that enter the lungs, preventing them from causing harm. The mucus captures the unwanted substance, preventing it from entering the body and disrupting the immune system, with the aim of making someone sick. In addition, mucus helps to keep the airways moist, which prevents them from drying out and becoming irritated.
However, too much mucus can also be a problem. Excessive mucus production can lead to coughing and difficulty breathing. It can also be a sign of an underlying infection or disease.
Mucus contains enzymes, antibodies, proteins, and cells, which work together to protect the body from infection. It also helps to keep the nasal passages moist and free of debris.
When you’re sick, your body goes into overdrive to try to fight off the illness. One of the ways it does this is by increasing the production of mucus. Though it may be gross, the increased production of mucus is a sign that your body is working hard to get rid of the sickness.
So, next time you’re feeling under the weather, take a moment to appreciate the gross but amazing mucus that’s helping you get better. While mucus may be icky, it is a vital part of the body’s defense system.
Mucus Production
Mucus is continuously produced by the body. Most of the time, it is thin and slippery, making it easy to slide down the back of the throat without being noticed. However, mucus production increases during colds and allergies, when the mucus becomes thicker and stickier.
When you have a cold, a sinus infection, or the flu, you blow your nose and “hock a loogie” because of this. It also changes consistency when your body is reacting to an allergy and attempting to defend itself against the allergen.
Some food, on the other hand, might cause you to generate more mucus.
What Foods Produce Mucus?
Certain foods can cause your body to produce more mucus than usual. This condition is known as gustatory rhinitis, and it’s a reflex reaction that occurs when you eat certain foods. Researchers have found that there are some foods, in particular, that can trigger this reaction. While this increased production of mucus is generally harmless, it can be annoying and uncomfortable. If you’d like to minimize the amount of mucus your body produces, there are the foods you should avoid:
- Milk and dairy products
- Alcohol
- Gluten
- Refined sugar
- Red meat
These meals are thought to induce gustatory rhinitis, which increases mucus production and makes individuals feel unpleasant.
Juice That Reduces Mucus
If you find that you are producing excessive amounts of mucus, you may want to try eliminating mucus-forming foods from your diet. Drinking plenty of fluids and taking antihistamines can also help to reduce mucus production. However, if your symptoms persist, it is advisable to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
This juice recipe is packed with ingredients that have traditionally been used to help reduce excessive production of mucus, catarrh, or any other respiratory issue. So if you’re looking for a little bit of relief, give this recipe a try. You may just find that it helps you feel better in no time!
Juice recipe:
- 8 carrots
- 1 inch of ginger
- 2 green apples
Wash the ingredients thoroughly, cut them into pieces and just put them in your juicer.
Cheers!
