Asthma is a chronic disease causing swelling, or inflammation, in your lungs, making it difficult to breathe normally. Asthma is the most common chronic illness among children, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affecting roughly 20 million Americans. In addition to avoiding irritants and allergens, if you have allergic asthma and take proper medications, a healthy diet may improve your symptoms. For best results, seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian before altering your diet.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are top food sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that help your body protect itself from toxins, infections and disease. Antioxidants and vitamins C, E and beta carotene may help reduce lung inflammation triggered by free radicals and improve asthmatic symptoms, according to asthma and allergy specialist James T. Li. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in these protective nutrients include citrus fruits, plums, kiwi, bell peppers, tomatoes, leafy greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and winter squash.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as albacore tuna, lake trout, salmon, flounder, sardines, herring, halibut and mackerel, provide rich amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. While additional research is needed, omega-3 fats may help treat asthma by reducing inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fatty fish provide nutritious alternatives to high-fat meats that may worsen inflammation. Consume fatty fish regularly as part of nutritious, balanced meals for best results. Healthy cooking methods include baking, broiling, steaming and grilling with non-stick cooking spray.
Whole Grains
Whole grains have not been stripped of valuable nutrients and fiber during food processing. According to a report published in the "American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine" in July 2004, selenium and magnesium -- the minerals prevalent in whole grains -- may play an important role in asthma treatment. A link has been found between selenium deficiency and asthma, and magnesium may improve breathing symptoms associated with acute asthma attacks. For heightened benefits, replace processed snack foods, such as candy and potato chips in your diet with whole grains routinely. Examples of nutritious whole grain foods include 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, old-fashioned oatmeal, long-grain brown and wild rice and air-popped popcorn.
Flaxseed, Walnuts and Canola Oil
Flaxseed, walnuts and canola oil are of the few plant-based foods that provide rich amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Since omega-6 fatty acids, present in margarine, mayonnaise and meat, may increase inflammation associated with asthma, according to the "American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine" report, replacing these foods with flaxseed, walnuts and canola oil in your diet may help manage your symptoms. Choose ground flaxseed over whole seeds for optimum absorption. Enjoy walnuts and flaxseed on their own or added to smoothies, yogurt, baked goods or cereal.
