If you are a person living with asthma, you might be wondering about the types of foods and dietary choices that can help you manage your condition. Although there is no conclusive evidence, a well-balanced diet may help you reduce asthma flare-ups. With proper consideration, you will be able to avoid processed and triggering foods. On the other hand, following a well-balanced diet and eating fresh will also improve your overall health and wellness. Below mentioned are some of the things you should consider when following a diet to improve asthma. 

How to Eat Healthy for Asthma?

Various studies have shown that shifting from a healthy diet to processed and junk foods increases the severity of asthma. Although more research is needed to confirm the same, eating well and right is a factor that cannot be ignored. People with asthma may benefit from eating a well-balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits. Different types of foods are also related to allergies as the immune system of people with asthma reacts differently to specific proteins in food. 

Foods to Include in Your Diet

Firstly, it is important to understand that there is no specific diet recommendation for asthma. However, foods and nutrients have anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties, which enhance your lung performance and improve immunity functions. If you have asthma or severe asthma, adding the below-mentioned foods and nutrients to your diet could be a good option:

Foods Rich in Vitamins

Foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene are highly suggested for their effects on asthma. As they have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects, they might help you to prevent asthma exacerbations. Some of the foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, brussel sprouts, broccoli, and apples. On the other hand, if you are looking for foods rich in vitamin E, you can include foods like sunflower seeds, almonds, wheat-germ oil, peanuts, hazelnuts, and avocado. 

You can buy some of the premium quality nuts, seeds, and dry fruits from Healthy Master. Apart from plain and raw seeds, nuts, and dry fruits, there are also many flavors and textures to choose from. For instance, there are also mixed combos and trail mixes, which will help you enjoy all the necessary seeds and nuts in one go. A handful of these superfoods will boost your overall health and performance. 

If you are looking for foods rich in vitamin A, carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, broccoli, leafy greens like kale, romaine lettuce, and spinach could be a great option. 

Foods Rich in Minerals

Magnesium and selenium are some of the minerals that may help you reduce the symptoms of asthma. As oxidative stress is a major factor that contributes to and worsens the conditions of asthma, selenium intake through diet can reduce these problems. Some studies also showed that selenium deficiency also led to impaired immune response. The findings suggested that including selenium in diet may help in reducing the oxidative stress in the lungs. This in return can help your lungs to breathe easily.

On the other hand, the anti-inflammatory properties of magnesium had a positive impact on reduced asthma symptoms and lung functions. Some of the foods rich in selenium include fish, Brazil nuts, meat (chicken, beef, turkey, pork), brown rice, eggs, and bananas. Some of the foods rich in magnesium are avocado, dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, tofu, salmon, and Swiss chard. 

Foods to Avoid

Above, you have seen information about the types of food that aid you ease asthma symptoms. In the same way, there are also some foods you should try avoiding that can worsen the issue. These foods may trigger asthma symptoms, or even cause the condition to become worse. Therefore, it is important for you to avoid these foods in any case. It is also better to consult a doctor or health expert to understand the effects of different foods and how you can avoid them. 

Sulfites are a type of preservative used in numerous foods. This preservative type can worsen asthma in some people. They are usually found in wine, some dried fruits, pickled foods, shrimp, maraschino cherries, bottled lemon, and lime juice. It is also important for you to avoid foods that cause gas. For instance, eating a large meal that causes gas may put pressure on your diaphragm, especially if you have acid reflux. This can even cause chest tightness as well as trigger asthma flares. Some of these foods include beans, cabbage, onions, garlic, carbonated drinks, and fried foods. However, it can be impossible for Indians to avoid these foods, and in such cases, consuming them in moderation is the key.

Other food types you should avoid include foods rich in salicylates, artificial ingredients, and common allergens. Foods like shellfish, dairy products, tree nuts, and wheat may cause allergies to some people. If you are facing any allergies or irritations after using these products, it is important to consult a healthcare expert. 

Different Tips to Prevent Asthma from Worsening

There are different things you can do to manage your asthma and prevent it from getting worse. Since asthma can be life-threatening, it is important for you to identify the trigger factors and avoid them. Some of the steps you can take to prevent asthma attacks are mentioned below:

• Create an asthma action plan with the help of your doctor and follow it
• Take your asthma medication as prescribed without missing it
• Get pneumonia and flu shots to avoid illnesses that trigger asthma
• Track your asthma and monitor your breathing patterns to identify the early signs 
• Use dust covers on beds and pillows to reduce any type of dust exposure
• Reduce pet dander at home
• Clean your house and surroundings regularly

Conclusion 

Although there is no specific remedy for asthma that you can get through food, healthy eating can help you improve your asthma symptoms. On the other hand, this will also promote your overall health and wellness. Apart from foods, it is also very important to consider the type of snacks you intake. Instead of choosing junk foods and deep-fried foods, it is important to choose healthy and nutritious snacks. 

Healthy Master has earned a huge reputation in the market for offering nutritious products. You will come across a huge selection of healthy snacks like baked chips, flavored nuts, dry fruits, seeds and berry mixes, as well as Indian snacks like khakhras and mathri from which you can choose the best for your needs and preferences. This is also a great way to switch to something healthy and take control of your health today. Choosing healthy snacks for your needs will also lead to many health benefits like weight loss, low cholesterol, low blood pressure, and improved digestion.