Asthma, the disease that causes narrowing of the small airways in your lungs, can negatively affect your daily life. It not only leaves you without energy, but it can also disrupt your sleep, lowering your immunity and making you susceptible to other diseases.
There are no specific nutrients that can help relieve asthma symptoms. But poor nutrition can worsen your asthma symptoms, while eating well can help prevent the disease.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET
Studies show that people who consume foods rich in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, flavonoids, magnesium, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids have lower rates of asthma. According to one study, children who grew up eating a Mediterranean diet high in nuts and fruits such as grapes, apples and tomatoes were less likely to have asthma symptoms.
FOODS THAT ARE GOOD FOR ASTHMA
If you have asthma, you should choose a healthy diet. You should eat enough fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and pulses. In addition, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, tuna, sardines and flaxseed may be beneficial for asthma patients.
Rice, bell pepper, broccoli, beetroot, potatoes, carrots, methi leaves, coriander leaves, scallions, onions, garlic, ginger, oranges, strawberries, grapes, pears, pomegranates, kiwis and cherries should also be included in your diet alternately.
TO REDUCE Cough and Wheezing…
To reduce swelling in the airways caused by asthma, consume foods rich in vitamin D such as milk, eggs and orange juice. Banana contains potassium and improves lung function.
Foods rich in vitamin E, such as nuts, mustard greens, broccoli, and cabbage, reduce coughing and wheezing. Apples and grapes contain flavonoids and antioxidants called selenium, which are anti-inflammatory in nature. A Mediterranean diet full of fruits and vegetables is good for asthma sufferers because of their anti-inflammatory properties.
FOODS THAT AFFECT ASTHMA NEGATIVELY
Reduce your consumption of junk food, fatty, processed and canned foods, as they can worsen symptoms such as coughing and inflammation.
Cola, sodas, cakes, pastries, candies, sweets, juices and other foods containing artificial sweeteners, preservatives and flavorings should be avoided.
STAY AWAY FROM DRIED FRUITS
Do not eat dried apples or other fruits. That’s because the sulfites that help preserve dried fruit can worsen your asthma and cause lung irritation. Even alcohol, pickled vegetables, and bottled lemon juice contain sulfites. Therefore, you should avoid them.