By – Ms. Soumita Biswas, Chief Clinical Nutritionist, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru
Asthma is one such chronic respiratory disease, where different environmental and dietary factors can be the trigger agent or exacerbating factor. Though the association of diet with asthma is not usual, some food has been identified that makes asthma worse in a certain number of patients. Identifying such triggers may help asthma patients manage their condition much better and avoid unnecessary flare-ups.
Some common fruits and vegetables that should be taken care of during winter by a patient having asthma are as follows:
- Acidic Foods- The high acidity of food such as tomatoes might have the effect of irritation in airways along with inflammation which causes asthma attacks.
- Nightshade Vegetables- Eggplant, Potatoes, and Peppers are some nightshade veggies that contain compounds that are inflammatory in nature and worsen asthma symptoms in people who are sensitive to it. Potatoes, if uncooked, also contain solanine, a toxin that may irritate the lungs.
- Cruciferous Vegetables- Cabbage, Broccoli, and Cauliflower can cause bloating or gas, creating discomfort among some asthma patients and related breathing problems.
- Bananas Some patients react allergically to the natural proteins within the bananas, thus exacerbating the asthma condition.
- Fried and Fatty Foods- Such foods may cause obesity or inflammation, further worsening the condition of asthma.
- Spicy Foods- Chili Peppers and spicy preparation can irritate the respiratory tract and lead to cough, wheezing, and dyspnoea in asthma patients.
- Apples- Allergens in apples react with proteins in apples provoke oral allergy syndrome and worsen asthma.
- Processed or Preserved Foods- The preservatives in processed foods, dried fruits, and wines cause asthma attacks.
- Dairy Products- Although not toxic to everyone, there are a few whose intake of dairy products makes their mucus production level go high, and this increases asthma.
Tips for managing Asthma:
But even if these foods are avoided, there is more than the asthma patient can do to reduce the effect winter triggers have:
- Shield Against Cold Air: Another common asthma trigger is cold, dry air. Wearing a scarf or mask while outdoors helps protect your airways.
- Warm, Cooked Foods: Replace raw salads with cooked vegetables, as this makes digestion easier and decreases irritation
- Monitor Your Triggers: Use a diary to monitor your symptoms and record food and environmental conditions that trigger your asthma.
- Indoor Air quality: Humidify the air indoors; avoid dust or other allergens indoors.
- Choose Anti-inflammatory Foods: Eat foods rich in omega3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds, and antioxidant-rich options like berries.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and keeps airways moist
Dietary triggers might be very different from one to another individual. So, to get proper advice on a better management of the illness, always consult a professional health care provider. Mindful eating indeed can make all the difference while reducing asthma complications.