Foods Which Create Mucus

Dairy products may thicken nasal mucus.

Dairy products may thicken nasal mucus.

Mucus is a thick substance that lines the nose's inner cavities, which are called sinuses. The job of mucus is to help clean the nasal passages by trapping foreign particles. It also helps provide moisture for the sensitive lining of the nose. Nasal congestion occurs when the mucus thickens and blocks the flow of air through the respiratory system. Some people may experience worsening nasal congestion after eating certain foods, even if they do not cause an increase in mucus production.

Dairy Products

Milk and milk products have a bad reputation of causing an increase in mucus production. Consuming dairy products may make mucus thicker, but this does not actually increase the amount of mucus produced in the nose. After drinking milk, a person might have difficulty swallowing and have a perceived thickening of mucus and saliva, but research indicates milk does not increase actual mucus production, according to the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy. Although dairy products, such as ice cream and yogurt, can thicken mucus for a person suffering from a head cold, eating cold dairy products, such as ice cream, may help ease irritation in a sore throat.

Food Allergens

People may have allergies to foods and can experience an increase in mucus production after eating the offending foods. Common food groups that may trigger this allergic response include dairy products, foods containing gluten, such as breads and pasta, as well as soy products, such as tofu. Symptoms of food allergies include nasal congestion and sneezing, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Eliminating food allergens can help decrease the amount of nasal mucus. Testing for food sensitivities can help determine specific food allergies.

Caffeinated Foods and Beverages

Caffeinated beverages, such as soft drinks, tea and coffee, may increase the risk of dehydration, which can lead to thicker mucus, according to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Drinking water instead of caffeinated drinks will help keep mucus secretions thin and lubricated. Chocolates and desserts containing instant coffee may also thicken mucus due to the dehydrating effects of caffeine in the foods.


Altering a diet to avoid foods that may increase mucus production may adversely impact a person’s health. Eliminating dairy products may cause a nutritional deficiency in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D and calcium. Symptoms that do not improve with short-term dietary changes may require medical assistance.

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