Asthma, a respiratory aliment, causes inflammation in the lungs. Asthma affects an estimated 11 million adults and 9 million children, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Asthma attacks can randomly occur in response to emotional stress, exercise, cold air, pollen, pet dander, smoke inhalation and other allergens. In addition to medications and medical treatments, you can also avoid potential asthma triggers by eating certain foods that reduce or prevent your symptoms.
Fish and Flaxseed
Fatty fish and flaxseed provide your body with bountiful amounts of omega-3 nutrients, healthy fats that promote brain and heart functions. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fats may also decrease asthma inflammation. Examples of omega-3 fatty sources include salmon, halibut, albacore tuna, sardines, flounder, mackerel, flaxseed oil and ground flaxseed.
Vegetables and Fruits
Since your immune system defends itself against disease and infections, vegetables and fruits are prime sources of antioxidants. Vitamin C-rich vegetables and fruits may decrease asthma wheezing symptoms, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Examples of foods with vitamin C include cantaloupe, green and red bell peppers, berries, citrus fruits, cabbage, broccoli, leafy greens, baked potatoes with skin, Brussels sprouts, winter squash, sweet potatoes, carrots and tomatoes. For maximum antioxidant benefits, incorporate colorful vegetables and fruits into your diet on a regular basis. Foods made with vegetables and fruits, such as smoothies, juices, stews, pasta dishes and vegetable-based soups, are also rich in antioxidants.
Magnesium
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, magnesium rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, whole grains and tofu may prevent asthma attacks. Low dietary intake of magnesium-rich foods can increase asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing and chest congestion in adults and children patients.
Seeds, Nuts and Oils
Seeds, nuts and plant-based oils provide your body with unsaturated fats and vitamin E nutrients. MayoClinic.com notes that vitamin E may also decrease asthma-related lung inflammation. Vitamin E sources include sunflower seeds and oil, almonds, almond butter, hazelnuts, wheat germ oil, peanut butter, peanuts, soybean oil and safflower oil. For best results, replace saturated fats with plant-based substitutes regularly.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asthma Facts, Treatment and Lifestyle Suggestions
- MayoClinic.com: Asthma Diet: What You Eat Can Affect Asthma Symptoms
- University of Michigan Health System: Asthma
- Medical News Today: Diet May Help Prevent Allergies and Asthma
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin E Fact Sheet
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Magnesium
