Foods To Avoid For Nasal Polyps

Food With Gluten

Gluten is a protein that naturally occurs in grains, including barley, rye, spelt, and wheat. Flours tend to form a glue-like sticky network substance when combined with water due to gluten. While most individuals can eat gluten without significant adverse effects, others may be sensitive to it or even be severely allergic. Individuals who are sensitive or allergic to gluten can experience symptoms that are associated with an increased immune system response to the protein. Their body may recognize it as a foreign invader.

The increased immune response can send all components into overdrive, including the mucous membranes that line the nose, oral cavity, and other digestive organs. When an individual consumes gluten, an abnormal flood of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals can cause their nasal passages to become swollen and irritated. This swelling and irritation combined with nasal polyps can obstruct the sinuses and nasal passages. This produces the telltale symptoms of nasal congestion and sinus pain.