Everyone suffers from a blocked nose once in a while. During this time, the individual may have a cough, cold, sneezing, chills, headaches, and even an irritation in the nasal tissue, which can be inconvenient. Nasal congestion may have many causes. Regardless of the cause, one can manage the problem with plenty of rest and warm liquids. In addition, individuals may eat these 11 foods to manage nasal congestion better:

Pineapple
Besides being a treat to the taste buds, pineapples are packed with vitamin C and bromelain. These nutrients can help break up accumulated mucus and reduce congestion. They can also manage other issues accompanying nasal congestion, such as sore throat. So, drinking fresh pineapple juice or eating pineapple slices is an excellent way to start one’s day and relieve nasal congestion.

Ginger
Ginger is a vital part of many traditional remedies for digestive problems, the common cold, and throat infections. With several antibacterial and antiviral properties, it can help dry out phlegm and mucus in the nasal passage, chest, and sinuses. The best way to have ginger is to use it in a warm beverage. Mix crushed ginger, lemon, and a drizzle of honey in hot water, brew it with some tea leaves, and strain the drink before enjoying it. Of course, one can also use ginger to flavor their favorite foods, like stir-fries, gravies, etc.

Berries
Berries are delightful remedies for managing nasal congestion. The antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in these tiny round fruits help fight the free radicals that cause sinus problems. Berries complement oatmeal, cereals, and muesli perfectly. However, one can even add them to smoothies and shakes to enrich their taste and nutritional value.

Peppers
Peppers contain a compound called capsaicin, which reduces pain and inflammation. Therefore, experts highly recommend them to those trying to relieve nasal congestion and its symptoms. One can drop peppers in salads, soups, stir-fries, and other dishes to spice them up and recover quickly from nasal congestion.

Garlic
Garlic has several antibacterial and antifungal properties, so it’s a great addition to one’s meals when healing from the common cold and nasal congestion. Many use this ingredient to flavor soups, gravies, stir-fries, and other delectable preparations. After all, it perfectly integrates taste and nutrition!

Fatty fish
Fatty fish are one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. They are ideal for nasal congestion because omega-3 boosts the immune system. And when one’s immunity is strong, it can fight infections better. So, one should include fatty fish varieties like salmon, tuna, and mackerel to recover from nasal congestion.

Herbal tea
While herbal tea may not cure nasal congestion, it can soothe the throat and nasal passages and speed up healing. These days, the market has many varieties of herbal and green tea, like chamomile, hibiscus, peppermint, and ginger tea. One can pick any of these types to relieve nasal congestion symptoms.

Citrus fruits
Contrary to popular belief, citrus fruits are good for the sinus, throat, and nasal passage. They can help heal nasal congestion and its symptoms. How? Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, which helps the body make more white blood cells to fight infection. These fruits are also excellent antioxidants. So, oranges, lemons, key lime, and grapefruit should be part of one’s meal plan while healing from nasal congestion.

Chicken soup
Besides being warm and soothing for the throat, chicken soup is an excellent electrolyte. So, it can boost the immune system and help manage nasal congestion symptoms. One can season the soup with pepper to enhance flavor and increase its healing benefits.

Horseradish
Horseradish contains several essential minerals and other nutrients, which can replenish the body with lost nutrients while fighting infections. That’s why including horseradish in one’s meals is a great idea when dealing with nasal congestion, colds, and other infections.

Honey
This sweetener has been proven to heal sore throats and clear the throat of excess mucus. Mixing about two teaspoons of honey in warm water and adding some ginger and lemon can help create a soothing drink for one’s throat and nasal passage. Those who have nasal congestion or sore throat must try this recipe.

Healing from nasal congestion mainly involves eating the right foods and beverages and avoiding cold foods for at least a few days. One should also stay hydrated and avoid processed foods to accelerate recovery.