Experts suggest that there is no specific asthma diet. An overall healthy diet is that is well-balanced is what will help asthmatics manage the symptoms. However, there are many studies going on to understand the connection between food and asthma. Despite the lack of a particular diet, there are foods that can aggravate the condition’s symptoms and those that can help keep them under control. This article discusses the same.

The connection between food and asthma
To understand the connection between food habits and asthma, we need to understand the workings of the system. Oxygen plays a pivotal role in the process of metabolism by breaking down the food’s nutrient molecules and further produces energy. Different nutrients require different amounts of oxygen for the conversion. Carbohydrates use more oxygen, whereas fats require less oxygen. Asthma and COPD patients are kept on a lower carbohydrate diet and good fats to ease the breathing process. A diet rich in vitamin C and E, magnesium, flavonoids, and selenium thus helps patients with the condition.

What to eat?
It is advisable to consult a doctor as diets are tailored on a case to case basis, but as far as broad guidelines go, it is recommended to maintain a well-balanced nutritious diet. Given below is an example of the same.

1. Fruits and vegetables
Increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid canned or frozen ones, which are readily available and are preservatives free.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids
Doctors recommend the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids found in sardines, tuna, flaxseed, salmon, and walnuts. They are healthier sources of fat and have numerous health benefits.

3. Vitamin D
Fortified milk, salmon, and eggs are great sources of vitamin D and should be added to your diet as they reduce airway inflammation and boost immune system. The nutrient has proven benefits for protection against respiratory infections.

4. Vitamin E
Tocopherol, present in vitamin E, helps in managing symptoms of asthma, such as coughing or wheezing. Hazelnuts, kale, raw seeds, almonds, broccoli, mustard greens, and Swiss chards are a great source of this essential nutrient.

What to avoid?

1. High calorie foods
People who consume high calorie foods frequently or are obese tend to have severe asthmatic symptoms since the excess fat makes it hard to breathe. Asthma patients should consume less calories and maintain a normal weight.

2. Common allergens
One can never predict what they will be allergic to. However, there are certain food items that common food allergens and must be had conservatively. Milk, fish, peanuts, and shellfish are some such items. Bronchospasm is one of the issues patients tend to suffer from in case of food allergies.

3. Preservatives
Sulfites, used for food storage and to keep it fresh, can cause severe symptoms in case of asthma patients, as they irritate the lungs. Switch to fresh fruits and vegetables instead and avoid cold cuts and ready-to-fry foods for as long as possible.