An estimated 20 million Americans suffer from asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Currently there's no cure for asthma, but proper diet, medication and avoidance of allergens can help those with the condition manage their symptoms.
Common Food Allergens
Food allergies can worsen asthma symptoms and cause asthma attacks. The most common food allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts and tree nuts, such as almonds and walnuts. Other common food allergens are wheat, soy, fish and shellfish, such as shrimp and lobster. A board-certified allergist can test for and diagnose any suspected food allergies.
Sulfites
Sulfites are compounds containing sulfur that occur naturally in food and are used in food processing. Common foods containing sulfites are wine, shrimp, dried fruits or vegetables, and potatoes. Sulfites also are in condiments such as lemon or lime juice, pickles and relish.
Food Additives
Three common food additives can lead to asthma symptoms: tartrazine, monosodium glutamate and aspartame. Tartrazine is a common ingredient in food dyes and colorings. Monosodium glutamate, also known as MSG, is a flavor enhancer sometimes used in Asian restaurants, fast food restaurants and processed foods. Aspartame, sold under the brand name NutraSweet, is an artificial sweetener used in diet sodas or added to coffee or tea.
Food Preservatives
Manufacturers add food preservatives to their products to prolong shelf life. Preservatives such as benzoates, BHA, BHT and nitrites can cause asthma attacks. Foods with these preservatives include fruit juice, soda, cured meats and pickles.
Prevention
Preventing food-induced asthma attacks requires carefully reading ingredient lists on food labels and avoiding the allergens, additives and preservatives that could trigger an attack. Physician and board-certified allergists can help patients create individual plans for preventing attacks.
References
- "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care"; Sylvia Escott-Stump; 2008
- Asthma UK: Diet & Food
- Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates: Asthma & Food
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Facts and Figures
