A mucus is a thick, jelly-like substance that is useful for protecting and lubricating delicate organs and tissues in the body. The presence of mucus in stool is a common thing. It can reduce damage caused by viruses, fungi, and bacteria.
Mucus can also offer protection against stomach acid and other harmful irritants and fluids. However, if you suddenly notice an increase in the amount of mucus in your stool, it can be a matter of concern.
By adding a few items to your diet, you will be able to reduce mucus in stool. But before you learn about those food items, become aware of some of the causes of increased mucus in stool.
Causes of Mucus in Stool
Constipation and dehydration are two primary causes of mucus in your stool. These two conditions make the normal mucus in the colon leave the body. Mucus in your stool, due to these issues, usually gets resolved on its own without any medication.
Changes in the mucus levels of your stool can occur due to various inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions. Some of these common conditions are as follows:
- Crohn’s disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Ulcerative colitis
- Malabsorption issues
- Intestinal infection
- Colon or rectal cancer
9 Food Items to Add to Your Diet
The top nine food items that you need to add to your diet to reduce the amount of mucus in it are as follows:
- Pineapple
Pineapple is a healthy fruit that helps with eliminating mucus. A mixture of enzymes called bromelain is present in pineapple juice. It contains various anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage respiratory issues like allergies and asthma. Pineapple juice also comes with mucolytic properties that can break up and expel mucus.
- Cucumber
Cucumber is equipped with vitamin C, potassium, and water. All these items can help with cleansing and detoxifying the body. Vitamin C also improves your immune system.
The alkaline nature of cucumbers can also nourish the gut lining and help remove inflammation in the digestive tract. Having a few pieces of cucumber with every meal is extremely beneficial for your body.
- Berries
Berries can help detoxify the digestive tract. They contain ingredients like potassium, fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The fibres can flush out toxins while providing relief from infection and inflammation.
Add blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries to your smoothie instead of sugar. You can also add berries to your fruit salad, along with apples and bananas. Berries come with a natural sweetness to improve the taste of several dishes while also providing your body with natural immunity.
- Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is extremely beneficial for reducing mucus in stool. A compound called capsaicin, found in cayenne pepper, can help with thinning mucus.
- Carrots
Carrots contain potassium, fibre, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Adding a few raw carrots to your salad is good for your health. You can also make soup or sabzi with carrots and reduce mucus in your stool. Moreover, you can’t miss out on gajar ka halwa during the winter.
- Broccoli
Broccoli is equipped with various enzymes that can help flush out toxins from the body. They are also fibre-rich and loaded with vitamin C. Add broccoli to your pasta or noodles. You can also make broccoli soup for yourself and provide your body with some warmth during the winter.
- Apples
Apples are packed with vitamin C and a fibre called pectin. Apples also contain a high amount of potassium. You can have raw apples or consume apple juice. Additionally, you can replace sugar with applesauce while making delicious muffins.
- Green Vegetables
Green vegetables are packed with vitamins A, B, C, and E, along with potassium. They are extremely useful for removing toxins and mucus from the body naturally. The high chlorophyll found in green vegetables can support the immune system and blood health. Consume green leafy vegetables like spinach at least once every week. You can add them to your curries or make parathas with them.
- Ginger
Ginger is one of the best home remedies for getting rid of mucus from the body. The specific enzymatic benefits of ginger can help remove toxins from your body. Ginger also comes with anti-inflammatory properties. You can add ginger to your curry or sip down ginger tea.
Final Thoughts
If these food items don’t help reduce mucus in stool, you should immediately seek medical help. The doctors at Apollo are ideal for solving the issue of mucus in your stool.