ALLERGENS THAT CAUSE NASAL CONGESTION
You may be asking yourself why do I have nasal congestion but no signs of a sinus infection, cold, hay fever or the flu? Well, the answer is simple. Nasal congestion may be caused by an allergic reaction to a food you have consumed or allergens in your home/work place. People can be allergic to any food. Here is a list of the most common.
Pasteurized Dairy
Eggs
All nuts (including but not limited to walnuts, peanuts and pecans)
Soy
Wheat
Shellfish
From what I've seen, pasteurized dairy products is the leading cause of food causing allergic reactions, such as nasal congestion. Also if you get enough good bacteria (probiotics) in your intestines, you can improve your immune system, which may help you overcome some of your allergies.
FOOD INGREDIENTS TO AVOID
Table Salt (Sodium)
White flour (wheat/corn)
Dairy products (milk, cheese, etc.)
High Fructose Corn Syrup
White sugar (Sucrose)
Eggs that have a white shell
Peanuts
Chocolate
Preservatives
HEALTHER FOOD CHOICES
Use Sea Salt instead of Table Salt to add flavor to your meals.
Eat vegetables with more stem/stalk. The crunchier the vegetables the better.
Homemade popcorn made with Canola, Sunflower, or Olive Oil and minimal Sea Salt. (Walmart sells a Presto Poplite hot air machine for approx. $20.)
Eat organic foods.
Look for products that use Flax Seed or Oatmeal in place of flour, such as Raisin Bran (found at Walmart).
Kashi Mini Wheats Cereal in lieu of the sugary alternative.
Full Circle Fruit and Cereal Bars, which can be found at your local grocery store.
Kashi TLC Snack Crackers (Fire Roasted Vegetable) and Kettle brand potato chips make for a healthy snack alternative.
Soy Milk/ Rice Milk
And always eat foods made with whole grains, which are high in fiber.
