Asthma and Nutrition
There is evidence that people who eat foods that contain enough vitamin C, flavonoids, selenium, magnesium, beta carotene, and omega 3 fatty acids have reduced the incidence of asthma. Almost all these substances are a good source of antioxidants that helps protect skin cells from damage. Studies also revealed that children who are not getting enough nutrition through food are more likely to have asthma symptoms. Those who do not include enough amount of fruits and green vegetables in their diet are more likely to experience poor lung function. Studies also revealed that those who eat more nuts, fruits such as apple, grapes, tomatoes are less to get asthma symptoms.
Incorporate plenty of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet
It is still not known what those specific fruits and vegetables that might reduce asthma are, so the best advice is to add as much as a wide variety of them.
Omega 3 fatty acids are considered beneficial
Eat foods that contain omega 3 fatty acids found in fish like tuna, salmon, and sardines. Plant sources of omega 3 are flaxseeds that are believed to exhibit the number of health benefits. However, no evidence proves the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids for asthma patients, but it’s still a good choice to include in your diet.
Avoids trans fats and omega 6 fatty acids
According to some research studies, eating trans fats and omega 6 fatty acids may worsen asthma. Processed foods and margarine come under these food categories. Such food can cause serious health condition such as heart problems.
Skip diets high in calories
Eating more calories that you may be able to burn contributes to weight gain. This is bad not only for your general health but also for your asthma. Studies suggest that obese people are more likely to experience severe asthma symptoms. In the same studies, such people were found to take more medicines for asthma and miss more work than people who maintain a healthy weight.
Look for food allergies
Many people have food intolerances such as lactose intolerance, but these are not considered as true allergies and rarely causes or worsen asthma symptoms. Very few people with asthma have true food allergies to eggs, milk, peanuts, shellfish, and other foods. If you have asthma, then exposing to even a small amount of food to which you are allergic to can cause life-threatening symptoms such as shortness of breath and severe wheezing that required immediate asthma medication.
Avoid preservatives
Sulphites that are generally used to keep food fresh and to inhibit the growth of old can trigger temporary asthma symptoms such as coughing wheezing and breathing difficulties. Sulfur dioxide produces by sulfites can irritate your lungs. However, the use of sulphite in fruits and vegetables is no longer considered, but they are still used in many processed foods dried fruits, canned wines, and other food items.
Before you may make dietary changes, it is always a good idea to consult your health care specialist who manages asthma. Depending on your asthma diagnosis, your health care provider might give you specific dietary advice along with medicines for asthma to improve your condition.