All about Asthma
Asthma is a condition that causes the airways to constrict and swell, as well as create excess mucus. This can make breathing difficult, resulting in coughing, whistling (wheezing) on exhalation, and shortness of breath. Asthma is considered a minor nuisance.
Moreover, in severe cases, it is considered a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. Asthma cannot be cured, but it may be managed. Because asthma symptoms and signs might vary over time, it is critical that patients should be aware and consult with the doctor to keep track of the signs and symptoms and alter the therapy as necessary.
In the case of normal breathing, muscles around the airways relax and complete the respiration process easily and quietly. However, during the asthmatic attack usually, the following three things happen.
- Bronchospasm
- Inflammation
- Mucus production
Bronchospasm
The muscles that surround the airways tighten (tighten). When they constrict, your airways narrow. Constricted airways prevent air from flowing freely.
Inflammation
The lining of the airways swells up. Swollen airways restrict the respiration system and the amount of air that enters and exits from the lungs.
Mucus production
Asthma creates more mucus which clogs airways and creates respiratory depression. When the airways get tighter, it creates a wheezing sound while breathing, which is similar to the sound that airways make when patients exhale. An asthma episode is also known as an exacerbation or a flare-up. When the asthma is not under control, it is referred to as a flare-up.
Introduction
Asthma is an inflammatory illness that affects the lungs’ airways. Breathing becomes difficult, and some bodily tasks become difficult or impossible. Moreover, there is no specific dietary chart recommended for the asthmatic patient, however, some research suggests that certain food choices can support lung function and boost the immune system.
Some foods with nutrients contain Antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals that are suitable and recommended for the Asthmatic patient. Moreover, some foods can cause allergies and adverse effects. These foods contain dried fruits, vegetables, pickled foods, shrimp, wine, beer, and some other products.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, eating a lot of sulfites can cause asthma in some people. Food allergies may cause asthma symptoms in those who eat the foods to which they are allergic.
There are some nutrients given below, which are beneficial for asthmatic people.
- Vitamin D-containing foods and supplements
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Antioxidants, such as selenium and flavonoids
- Whole grains
Vitamin D-containing foods and supplements
Low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of asthma attacks in both children and adults, according to some studies. It also suggests that taking a vitamin D supplement every day might lower the chance of being admitted to the hospital for a severe asthma attack.
Vitamin D may benefit lung function and the prevention of upper respiratory infections like the common cold.
Some good resources of Vitamin D are given below.
- Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel
- Mushrooms
- Egg yolks
- Cheese
- Liver
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables with a rich source of vitamins C and Vitamins E are beneficial for asthma and its disorders. It also provides antibodies to fight toxins and damaged tissues. This helps to improve lung function and control the symptoms of asthma.
Some rich sources of vitamin C include,
- Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruit
- Kiwi fruit
- Strawberries
- Cantaloupe
- Red and green peppers
- Broccoli
- Baked potatoes
Good resources for vitamin E include,
- Nuts, such as almonds, peanuts, and hazelnuts
- Sunflower seeds
- Broccoli
- Fortified foods, such as breakfast cereal, fruit juice, margarine, and spreads
Beta carotene is beneficial for respiratory depression and to improve lung function. Mostly orange and red fruits and vegetables are good resources of beta carotene.
Some good resources of the Beta carotene are given below.
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Squash
- Red and yellow peppers
- Cantaloupe
- Apricots
- Dark leafy greens, such as kale and spinach
Antioxidants, such as selenium and flavonoids:
Selenium and flavonoids, antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, have anti-inflammatory properties.
Some good resources of selenium and flavonoids are given below.
- Apples
- Berries
- Grapes
- Seafood
- Meat
- Poultry
- Eggs
- Dairy products
- Bread
- Cereals
Whole grains
Whole-grain diets help to alleviate asthma symptoms. A well-balanced diet rich in whole grains can aid in the relief of asthma symptoms and the successful management of respiratory problems. According to a 2018 study, patients who ate a balanced diet that included whole grains had fewer asthma symptoms and had better management of their illness.
Some good resources of whole-grain foods include,
- Whole oats
- Whole-wheat pasta
- Buckwheat
- Bulgur wheat
Food to avoid for asthmatic patients
The American Lung Association (ALA) has identified a number of foods, beverages, and other substances that persons with asthma should avoid because they can aggravate their symptoms.
Some food options are given below, which should be avoided while the treatment of asthma diseases.
- Foods contain sulfites
- Salicylates
- Allergens
- Fast foods
Foods contain sulfites
Sulfites are a form of preservative that may be found in alcoholic drinks, pickled foods, bottled lemon and lime juice, and dried fruits.
People with asthma who consume a lot of sulfites in their diet may notice an increase in their symptoms. The American Lung Association advises that sulfite-containing foods, particularly wine, might cause asthma attacks.
Salicylates:
Salicylates are a kind of chemical found in teas, coffees, spicy meals, and herb-flavored foods. Although rare, some asthmatics may be susceptible to these substances and have a flare-up of symptoms.
Fast foods
Fast food eating among children and adolescents was studied in 2013, and it was shown that those who ate it three times a week or more were more likely to develop severe asthma and other health problems.
Conclusion
There is no specific dietary chart recommended for the asthmatic patient, however, some research suggests that certain food choices can support lung function and boost the immune system.
Some foods with nutrients contain Antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals that are suitable and recommended for the Asthmatic patient. Moreover, some foods can cause allergies and adverse effects. These foods contain dried fruits, vegetables, pickled foods, shrimp, wine, beer, and some other products.
Food resources which are rich in vitamin C, D, E, and Beta carotene are favorable for asthmatic patients, as it helps the patients with proper respiration and improves lung function. Selenium and flavonoids, antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, have anti-inflammatory properties which are also beneficial for ashtametic patients. Other food resources which are beneficial for the respiratory system are the Whole grain diet and fresh fruit and vegetables. Whole-grain diets help to alleviate asthma symptoms.
A well-balanced diet rich in whole grains can aid in the relief of asthma symptoms and the successful management of respiratory problems. According to a 2018 study, patients who ate a balanced diet that included whole grains had fewer asthma symptoms and had better management of their illness. Also, fresh fruits and vegetables with a rich source of vitamins C and Vitamins E and Beta carotene are beneficial for asthma and its disorders. It also provides antibodies to fight toxins and damaged tissues. This helps to improve lung function and control the symptoms of asthma.