Asthma is one such chronic respiratory disease, where different environmental and dietary factors can be the trigger agent or exacerbating factor. Though the association of diet with asthma is not usual, some food has been identified that makes asthma worse in a certain number of patients. Identifying such triggers may help asthma patients manage their condition much better and avoid unnecessary flare-ups.
Some common fruits and vegetables that should be taken care of during winter by a patient having asthma are as follows:
- Acidic Foods-The high acidity of food such as tomatoes might have the effect of irritation in airways along with inflammation which cause asthma attack.
2.Nightshade Vegetables-聽Eggplant, Potatoes, Peppers are some nightshades veges that contain compounds that are inflammatory in nature and worsen asthma symptoms in people who are sensitive to it. Potatoes, if uncooked, also contain solanine, a toxin that may irritate the lungs.
3.Cruciferous Vegetables-聽Cabbage, Broccoli, and Cauliflower can cause bloating or gas, creating discomfort among some asthma patients and related breathing problems.
4.Bananas聽Some patients react allergically to the natural proteins within the bananas, thus exacerbating the asthma condition.
5.Fried and Fatty Foods– Such foods may cause obesity or inflammation, further worsening the condition of asthma.
6.Spicy Foods-聽Chili Peppers and spicy preparation can irritate the respiratory track and lead to cough, wheezing, and dyspnoea in asthma patients.
- Apples-Allergens in apples react with proteins in apples and provoke oral allergy syndrome and worsen asthma.
- Processed or Preserved Foods-The preservatives in processed foods, dried fruits, and wines cause asthma attacks.
- Dairy Products-Although not toxic to everyone, there are a few whose intake of dairy products makes their mucus production level go high, and this increases asthma.
Tips in managing Asthma:
But even if these foods are avoided, there is more that the asthma patient can do to reduce the effect winter triggers have:
- Shield Against Cold Air:聽Another common asthma trigger is cold, dry air. Wearing a scarf or mask while outdoors helps protect your airways.
- Warm, Cooked Foods:聽Replace raw salads with cooked vegetables, as this makes digestion easier and decreases irritation
- Monitor Your Triggers:聽Use a diary to monitor your symptoms and record food and environmental conditions that trigger your asthma.
- Indoor Air quality:聽Humidify the air indoors; avoid dust or other allergens indoors.
- Choose Anti-inflammatory Foods:聽Eat foods rich in omega3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds, and antioxidant-rich options like berries.
- Stay Hydrated:聽Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and keeps airways moist
Dietary triggers might be very different from one to another individual. So, to get proper advice on a better management of the illness, always consult a professional health care provider. Mindful eating indeed can make all the difference while reducing asthma complications.