It is produced by the tissue lining the mouth, nose, sinuses, lungs, throat, and gastrointestinal tract. The mucus created by these tissues protects the surfaces of those parts of the body, which in turn prevents the tissues from drying out.
Additionally, mucus protects the body from viruses, bacteria, and other germs. When a foreign invader attacks the body, the mucus traps this pathogen and prevents it from entering the body.
Mucus, also referred to as phlegm or snot, contains enzymes, protein, cells, and antibodies which are working to help you when you are sick. Its chemical composition is quite complex, as it consists of 95% water, enzymes that kill foreign organisms, and antibodies which recognize the invading microbes in the first place. You have probably noticed that there is an increased production of mucus when you are sick, haven’t you? This is because the body needs more mucus to fight off the illness.
A healthy individual produces approximately 1 to 1.5 liters of mucus daily, which goes down the throat quietly. On the other hand, the mucus becomes thicker when we are sick, which makes it highly noticeable. An increased mucus production also occurs when a person is exposed to something they are allergic to, such as pollen. As mentioned above, the mucus produced when you are sick is different than the one being produced daily, as the first one is much thicker and stickier.
Foods That Create Mucus
There are some foods that activate gustatory rhinitis, a reaction which is set off by eating. Consequently, the body produces more mucus.
It has been found that there are 5 foods which cause increased production of mucus: alcohol, gluten, refined sugar, milk and other dairy products, and red meat. If you want to limit the amount of mucus being produced by the body, stay away from these foods.
Mucus-Reducing Juice
If you have cut down the consumption of the foods above and you still have mucus in the throat, it could indicate that you are allergic to some other food you are eating.
The juice below is designed to reduce increased production of mucus as well as to reduce sinusitis. To accelerate the healing process, add probiotics or fermented foods in your diet.
Ingredients:
– 2 green apples
– 8 carrots
– 1-inch ginger root
Instructions:
Simply clean and cut the ingredients and then run them through your juicer.
source: http://besthealthyguide.com
