Asthma diet: foods to help you breathe better and keep your lungs healthy

New Delhi: Asthma can be caused by a number of factors including environmental and genetic factors. Allergies to climate change or seasonal pollen during hay fever can trigger asthma attack symptoms. It is a well known fact that respiratory infections such as colds or flu can trigger asthma symptoms or trigger a fatal asthma attack in the most severe cases.

Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways of the lungs. The disease causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways that carry air to the lungs, which restricts air intake and makes breathing difficult. This disease of the respiratory tract is incurable. However, asthmatics can lead an active and busy life with proper management, which includes medication and lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Nutrition in Asthma: Can What You Eat Affect Your Lungs?

Although there is no specific food for asthma, getting the right nutrients in your diet can help you breathe better and play an important role in managing your condition. It is recommended that people with asthma have a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean meats or meat substitutes, bread and cereals, dairy products such as milk, cheese and meat. yogurt.

Recommendations regarding diet and lifestyle of people with asthma

The consumption of high-fat foods increases the inflammation of the airways. Consumption of high-fat meals increases the number of neutrophils in sputum 4 hours after a meal in asthmatic patients. A reduction in intake of saturated fats is therefore recommended, said Janvi Chitalia, nutritionist and wellness coach.

Fruits, vegetables and foods rich in antioxidants can reduce airway inflammation. Studies show that eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as tomato juice, reduces sputum in the first week after supplementation.

The increase in the consumption of minerals such as magnesium, zinc, copper and selenium also has a favorable effect on asthma.

The prevalence of asthma is considerably lower among people who consume high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. This could be due to the protective effect of omega-3 fatty acids because of their anti-inflammatory properties.

A Mediterranean diet is useful in asthmatics because of the high content of anti-inflammatory foods in the diet.

The increase in body weight can aggravate asthma. Thus, maintaining one's weight could be one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of asthma. Overweight can increase the feeling of shortness of breath and trigger an asthma attack.

What are the signs and symptoms of asthma?

The signs and symptoms of asthma can vary from one person to another in severity and frequency. Common symptoms include coughing with or without sputum, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, etc.

The symptoms of asthma can appear several times a day or a week. In some individuals, the symptoms worsen during physical activity or at night. The recurrent symptoms of asthma are the cause of insomnia, fatigue during the day and reduced activity levels.

Causes and risk factors of asthma

The most important risk factor for asthma is a combination of genetic predisposition and exposure to environmental allergens. Inhalation of substances and particles that can trigger allergic reactions or irritate the airways can lead to an asthma attack. Some common triggers for asthma are:

• Indoor allergens (mites, pet dander)
• Outdoor allergens (pollen)
• Occupational exposure to chemical irritants
• Tobacco smoke
• Air pollution

Indirect triggers such as cold air, an emotional eruption such as anger, fear, and physical exercise can also lead to asthma attacks. Some medications used to treat heart disease, migraine and hypertension can also trigger asthma.

Disclaimer: The tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before beginning any fitness program or changing your diet.