Because asthma is a disease that causes airway inflammation, people with the disease should eat carefully, preferring foods that contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidants, such as omega-3-rich foods, for example.
In addition, they should also avoid eating foods high in sugar, as carbohydrates consume more oxygen when digested, increasing respiratory work and increasing the risk of an asthma attack.
- Food alone does not help to cure asthma.
- But to improve it and should therefore be used to complement the treatment indicated by the pneumologist.
Here are some nutritional recommendations that can help relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of asthma attacks.
Anti-inflammatory foods decrease the production of substances in the body that stimulate inflammation of lung tissue. In addition to promoting the immune system, they make the body more resistant to other diseases, such as the flu or a cold for example.
Omega-3s, vitamin C, vitamins A and E, allicin, polyphenols, among other substances, are powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the foods that can be included in daily life are salmon, tuna, sardines, olive oil, chia seeds, flaxseed, avocado, orange, strawberry, kiwi, guava, broccoli, cabbage, garlic, onion, among others.
In some cases, asthma is treated with steroids. However, this type of medicine can increase the breakdown of the body’s proteins. Therefore, when administering it, it is important to consume higher amounts of protein-rich foods, especially for children who are growing up.
To help smooth and eliminate secretions produced as a result of asthma more easily, it is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of liquids a day and consume natural sugar-free water, teas or juices.
It is important that people with asthma avoid health and foods high in simple sugars and saturated fats, in addition to industrialized products, especially in times of crisis. These foods are pro-inflammatory, so they promote inflammation of the body and decrease defenses, making it difficult to control asthma.
In addition, excessive consumption of sugar-rich foods can make breathing difficult, as more oxygen is digested during your metabolism and more carbon dioxide is released, causing fatigue of the respiratory muscles.
Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the consumption of soft drinks, white sugar, biscuits, chocolates, cakes, sweets, snacks, prepared dishes and fast food.
It is important that omega-6 consumption does not exceed omega-3 consumption, as it can also increase inflammation of the body. Examples of omega-6-rich foods include soybean oil, apple oil, and sunflower oil.
The amounts indicated vary depending on age, sex, physical activity and associated disease, and it is important to see a nutritionist for a full assessment and the most appropriate nutritional plan to be verified according to the needs of the individual.
Watch the video below for more asthma relief tips: