8 Healthy Foods for Asthma
Asthma, also known as bronchial asthma, is a chronic respiratory disorder in which the airways in the lungs become narrow and inflamed, restricting airflow and causing shortness of breath. Its symptoms include wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest.
Further, since asthma is a chronic disease with no cure, asthma patients must take adequate measures to minimise asthma attacks as part of the effective management of the condition. One such measure is a balanced asthma diet that includes the best foods for asthma patients.
8 Healthy Foods to Eat in Asthma
Here are eight healthy foods for asthma that individuals must include in their asthma diet:
1. Ginger
A study published in Allergologia et Immunopathologia, a Spanish medical journal, found that ginger extract can help reduce the severity of asthma by positively affecting the main cells involved in asthma symptoms.
One of the most common ways to consume this vegetable is to brew it with water to make Ginger tea.
2. Turmeric
Commonly referred to as haldi, this Indian cuisine staple is known for its healing properties around the world. Turmeric’s core component is a natural compound called polyphenol. Also known as curcumin, this compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help asthma patients reduce the chances of an asthma attack.
While turmeric is a core ingredient in most Indian dishes, individuals can also consume it by mixing it with milk.
3. Pomegranate
This fruit is high in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the airways. The seedy fruit is high in fibre, vitamin C, magnesium, folate, phosphorous, and potassium, making it a healthy food for asthma patients.
Individuals can consume them raw or blend them into a refreshing juice to help keep fluid intake high on hot days.
4. Whole Grain Foods
These are an important part of a healthy asthma diet. These include whole oats, whole wheat pasta, buckwheat, and quinoa, among others. This food group includes nutrients such as vitamins A, B-1, B-2, B-3, B-6, B-9, E, magnesium, phosphorous, etc.
These help reduce the severity of asthma symptoms by ensuring the overall health of the body.
5. Tomato Juice
Tomatoes are low in calories while being high in antioxidants, making them one of the best foods for asthma patients. Further, a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that daily intake of tomato juice for over six months can contribute to improving the health of asthma patients.
6. Beans
A healthy gut microbiome can help reduce asthma symptoms and fight off autoimmune disorders. Further, high-fibre foods can also promote the overall health of the body and reduce inflammation.
However, asthma patients must exercise caution when consuming beans. This is because its excess consumption can increase the chances of bloating and gas.
7. Salmon
Polysaturated fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, must be included in an asthma diet. As per a study published in the Allergology International journal, there is a positive link between omega-3 fatty acids and inflammation in asthma patients.
Further, salmon is also a rich source of vitamin D, producing 500 IU of the vitamin in a 100 gm serving, which is 66% of the daily recommended intake.
8. Spinach
Spinach is not only high in vitamins and minerals but also folate, a B vitamin which is crucial to a balanced asthma diet.
A study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society (ATS) journal found that children with folate and vitamin D deficiency were eight times more likely to have one or more serious asthma exacerbations than children who consumed enough of these nutrients.
This makes spinach one of the best foods for asthma patients and must be included in their diet.
While there is no single best food for asthma that can improve asthma symptoms, eating a balanced diet that includes the above-mentioned foods and excludes processed products can help reduce asthma attacks. In addition to consuming a healthy diet, asthma patients must also consult a medical professional and book necessary tests with Dr Lal PathLabs to manage this respiratory condition effectively.
FAQs
1. How Can I Fix Asthma Naturally?
There is no cure for asthma. However, asthma patients can manage the condition effectively by including breathing exercises, a balanced asthma diet, yoga, and moderate exercise in their lifestyle.
2. Is Banana ok for Asthma?
Yes, bananas can be safely consumed by asthma patients. This fruit has antioxidant properties and can improve wheezing. Other than this, asthma patients should also include pomegranates, apples and oranges in their diet.
3. What to Avoid in Asthma?
Asthma patients should avoid sulfites found in wine, pickled food, dried fruits, etc. and gas-producing foods such as fried food, carbonated drinks, etc. Further, asthma patients can cut down on salicylate-rich substances such as coffee and tea and processed foods as part of a healthy asthma diet.
