5 Foods to Avoid for Asthma

5 Foods to Avoid for Asthma

A whole lot of us know that asthma attacks can be controlled with the help of medication. But, very few know about how an individual’s diet can also help control the condition and reduce the effect of it’s symptoms. The exact causes of the breathing disorder have not been pinpointed as yet, despite the progress of medical sciences, but studies have noted some foods you may want to avoid when suffering from asthma.

  • Fruits that have been dried out
    One of the major food triggers for individuals who have asthma is sulfites. Sulfites are specifically designed to extend the shelf life of foods. But, this additive is actually super-problematic for individuals who have asthma. So, before you get to actually buying any food items, don’t forget to read the label and look for constituents like “potassium bisulfite” or even “sodium sulfite.”
  • Beer and other alcoholic beverages
    Another source of sulfites that can also trigger an asthmatic reaction is alcohol. Alcoholic drinks such as wine and beer are common sources of the preservatives. So, if you want to keep those attacks at bay, you may find a way to steer clear of a glass of bubbly or anything similar.
  • Pickles
    Pickles are another major source of sulfites. This means that it is another of the foods you must avoid if suffering from asthma. Steer clear of that dash of tang and flavor with your sandwich, and opt for healthier options such as salads and fresh dips instead.
  • Foods that cause food allergies
    If you are allergic to certain foods, your body’s immune system goes into overdrive. One of the common reactions of the immune system is to cause breathing troubles. If an individual who suffers from asthma has an allergic reaction to food, it may turn dangerous pretty soon. On the other hand, many individuals tend to confuse allergic reactions to food as an asthma attack, as they have similar symptoms. So, it is important to get these signs and symptoms checked with the doctor.
  • Food that can lead to acidity, bloating, and gas
    Heavy meals can also trigger an asthma attack. Yes, you read that right. This is because a full or bloated stomach can put pressure on the diaphragm, leading to tightness in the chest. This tightness can eventually trigger an asthma flare-up. Heavy meals are not the only trigger. Foods such as beans, legumes, cabbage, and similar options can also trigger an asthmatic attack.
  • Carbonated drinks
    While we know that certain foods can cause gas, bloating, and even heartburn, not a lot know about the adverse effects of carbonated and fizzy drinks. Consuming too many carbonated beverages can lead to tightness in the chest and eventually trigger an asthmatic reaction.

Other than being careful of foods to avoid when suffering from asthma, there are a whole lot of factors that can act as a trigger to the condition. Smoking, leading an unhealthy lifestyle, heartburn, extreme emotional reactions, exercise, infections, and even certain medications are more than capable of triggering an asthmatic flare.