Which Foods To Quit If You Are Asthmatic?

Which Foods To Quit If You Are Asthmatic?

The problem with certain foods is that they increase the production of phlegm and mucus and thus can worsen the condition of people suffering from asthma. To avoid this, it is better to give preference to other foods that are rich in magnesium.

Diet and Asthma

Does diet prevent asthma? This statement may sound too strong since food is not a panacea for asthmatics. However, it does have a big impact on the lives of people with this disease. If you eat the right (healthy food), then this can help in the treatment of asthma.

And it is true that eating certain foods can cure the symptoms of asthma while others can worsen your condition. So if you have asthma, cut down on the following products.

Saturated Fats

Saturated fats are present in many of the foods we eat for lunch and dinner. These include baked goods, red meat, and fried foods. They even exacerbate asthma symptoms among many people. For this reason, it is recommended to consume more omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in:

  • Fish
  • Linseeds
  • Walnuts

And you need to eat more lean proteins, which are present in:

  • Skimmed milk
  • Chicken breast
  • Legumes

It is better to eat chicken breast and try steaming or grilling.

Alcoholic Drinks

Many alcoholic drinks contain pesky sulfites and after their consumption, you may start coughing. Researchers have also found that histamines that are present in wine can cause wheezing, sneezing, and watery eyes.

Moreover, many people even mix alcohol with benzos. However, the risks of mixing benzos with alcohol are severe and can lead to breathing problems and even overdose. Thus, you need to prevent the consumption of such harmful mixtures for better health.

Whole Milk Dairy Products

A large amount of animal fats worsens the condition of asthmatics. It does not mean that you need to eliminate all meat products and go vegan.  Choose low-fat foods or replace them with something else. We eat a lot of dairy products without even realizing it.

This happens because milk is present in most of our dishes: creamy soups, pasta sauces, ice cream, coffee with milk, smoothies, butter, etc. But remember that the very consistency of dairy products contributes to the production of phlegm and asthmatics should not consume them.

Red Meat

Here again, we have to talk about saturated fats. Indeed, saturated fats are present in red meat in large quantities. Of course, lean meats are an exception. However, beef and pork are definitely not worth eating for asthmatics.

According to research in the journal Nutrition, people who eat a lot of red meat are more likely to develop asthma. Try to eat it no more than once a week, but less often is better. In addition, opt for healthier alternatives such as chicken, turkey, or fish.

Citrus Fruits And Tomatoes

Some people suffering from asthma have an intolerance to products that contain salicylates. This substance is present in citrus fruits as well as tomatoes. Thus, consuming them in excess can trigger breathing problems. You don’t have to cut them out right away or completely cut them out of your diet. Just try to reduce their consumption a little.

Salty Foods

Asthmatics should not eat salty foods if they do not want to suffer from breathing issues. Try to reduce salt in your meals, avoid processed foods (canned soups and instant mashed potatoes), as well as French fries, chips, and other salty snacks. Do not put a salt shaker on the table and carefully read the labels on the food you buy. Since even sweet foods contain salt.

Dried Fruits

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Many dried fruits that are present on store shelves contain sulfites, which help to stretch their shelf life. However, sulfite is a problematic substance for people suffering from asthma. Thus, if you want to eat dried fruits, you should the ones without preservatives.

Be sure to read the packaging and if contains sodium sulfite or potassium bisulfite, avoid purchasing such products. This is because consuming such products in excess can be problematic for asthmatic patients.

Trans Fats

Trans fats, also known as solid fats, are made by incorporating hydrogen into vegetable oil. Such fats are not healthy at all and can even lead to diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. If you want to stay healthy and live longer, try to avoid foods that contain trans fats.

Some foods that contain Trans fats include margarine, fried foods, and partially hydrogenated oils. This type of fat is also present in purchased baked goods, confectionery, and various cookies. So opt for healthy fats, which are present in olive or canola oil (organic), flaxseeds, and nuts (like almonds or walnuts).

This way you will not only reduce the symptoms of asthma, but you will also be able to avoid other, more serious diseases.

Magnesium For Asthma

Magnesium is good for asthmatic patients as it helps to relax muscles and the respiratory system.  In addition, magnesium is an anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator. And you should consume 500 mg of magnesium daily for preventing breathing issues.

In order to consume magnesium in the right amount, it is important to eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, as well as nuts and legumes. If you also suffer from asthma, then be sure to eat the following foods:

  • Sesame and pumpkin seeds
  • Soy (in all its forms)
  • Legumes (lentils, peas, and beans)
  • Wheat germ
  • Primrose oil
  • Greens and vegetables (spinach, green beans, broccoli, parsley, carrots, and onions)
  • Fruits (bananas, dates, raisins, and fruits)
  • Nuts (pistachios and walnuts)
  • Oatmeal
  • Seaweed
  • Garlic

If you add these products to your diet, it will help you with your asthma and also prevent further complications.

Take Away

Asthma is a common health problem that complicates the life of many people. Thus, those suffering from this health problem must quit the products mentioned in this article. Besides, they should add magnesium-rich foods to their diet.

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