Physical activity can pose a problem for people prone to exercise-induced asthma. There are countless medications available to manage and prevent symptoms, but little is known for certain about alternative methods, such as nutritional supplements. Ask your doctor about ways to be proactive in your asthma management so you can enjoy adequate amounts of healthy exercise.
Identification
Asthma is a chronic disease with no known cure. It is possible, however, to have a long, active life if you keep your asthma under control. An asthma attack occurs when the air passages in your lungs constrict and it becomes difficult to breath. You may experience wheezing, coughing, tightness in your chest or difficulty breathing. Exercise-induce asthma, or EIA, may occur during exercise or not until several minutes after exercise has ceased.
Potential Remedies
Some home dietary remedies are based on old wives tales and have no scientific basis. Before trying any home remedy, consult your doctor to be certain it is safe and won't interact with medication you may be on. To improve breathing, honey can either be ingested or held under your nose to inhale the vapors. Ginger juice, fenugreek and honey mixed together supposedly form an expectorant and should be used in the mornings. Boiling water infused with carom seeds may be beneficial when you inhale the steam coming off the water. This remedy may have some validity because humid air is known to help asthma symptoms and the water vapor would easily humidify the air you're breathing, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Expert Insight
"Chest" medical journal published a study in January, 2006, which revealed promising results from a study of exercise-induced asthmatics fed omega-3 polyunsaturated fat, or fish oil, supplements. Due to the ability of fish oil to reduce inflammation, the researchers concluded that it helped control bronchiole constriction and asthma symptoms were diminished.
Considerations
It appears that some dietary nutrients may be of benefit for exercise-induced asthma, while others are unproven in scientific studies and a statement cannot be made as to their efficacy. Therefore, it is imperative to talk with your doctor to ensure your health and safety before trying a nutritional treatment. While you may find that alternative supplements work for you, they may not for children. Do not give a child a dietary supplement or herbal medication without first consulting a doctor.
References
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: Tips to Remember, Asthma and Exercise
- HomeRemediesForYou.com: Asthma
- "Chest"; Protective Effect of Fish Oil Supplementation on Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction in Asthma ; Mickelborough, et al; January, 2006
- "Epidemiologic Reviews"; Diet And Obstructive Lung Diseases; Romieu, et al; 2001
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Alternative Therapies
