Although there is no specific diet that can help asthmatics, certain foods can be beneficial, while avoiding others can help to prevent a flare-up of the condition. To help you understand the association between breathing difficulties and food, we have listed out a few points that you should be aware of.

1. Manage your weight
If you consume more calories than you can burn, it will result in weight gain. Being overweight can put you at risk of developing various health conditions and also worsen your symptoms of asthma. Avoiding unhealthy and processed foods should help you manage your weight. Being aware of the relationship between breathing difficulties and food will help you manage your weight. Excess fat in the abdominal region also exerts pressure on the lungs making it difficult to breathe.

2. Food allergies
The link between breathing difficulties and food can be clearly seen in people with food allergies and intolerances, especially lactose intolerance. Although only about 2% of people with asthma have food allergies, even a small amount of the allergen can trigger life-threatening anaphylactic attacks. Hence, determining if you are allergic to lactose, milk, eggs, shellfish, peanuts, or any other food could help you to avoid triggering breathing difficulties and asthma symptoms.

3. Sensitivity to preservatives
Preservatives such as sulfites that are used to keep food fresh can trigger the symptoms of asthma in some individuals. This substance can irritate the lungs, and although not used on fresh produce, it is added to many processed foods, dried fruits, and canned vegetables. Avoiding items with this preservative might be beneficial for those with respiratory issues such as asthma.

4. Avoid foods that trigger GERD
Foods that are highly acidic, such as tomatoes and citrus fruits, can trigger gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), making it difficult to manage asthma symptoms. Hence, when reviewing breathing difficulties and food, avoiding foods that prevent GERD or heartburn is key.

5. Foods to eat and avoid
The connection between many disorders, including breathing difficulties and food, has been vastly researched. Even though studies are still ongoing, it has been found that a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and sources of omega-3 fatty acid such as oily fish and plant sources such as flaxseed could help manage and cope with conditions such as asthma. In addition to the foods mentioned above, avoiding items containing trans fats and omega-6 fatty acids such as those found in processed foods and margarine could help prevent a flare-up of asthma symptoms.

Keeping a check is key to managing breathing conditions such as asthma. To know more about asthma and nutrition, consult your healthcare expert.