Preventing Asthma With Diet
Although the relation between asthma and diet is unclear, nonetheless, studies have shown that your nutrition could prevent asthma. Some health experts believe that our wrong eating habit, relying more on fast foods and processed foods for satiating our hunger, and absence of fruits and vegetables in meals could explain the rapid rise in the number of asthma cases.
According to a study, poor nutrition increases the risk of asthma in teens. In another study, researchers found that children who had Mediterranean diet were less likely to suffer from asthma. To reduce the risk of developing asthma symptoms and to prevent recurrent asthma attacks, you can modify your diet.
Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene, which the human body converts into vitamin A, is extremely beneficial for preventing symptoms of asthma. This powerful antioxidant is found abundantly in yellow and orange vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes and apricots.
B-vitamins
Niacin and vitamin B6 could help to prevent asthma. Regular intake of 50 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 100 milligrams of niacin could significantly reduce the risk of asthma. People who consume adequate amounts of niacin are least likely to experience bronchitis and wheezing. You will find most of the B vitamins in leafy green vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, egg and fish.
Vitamin C
By boosting the immune function, vitamin C could reduce the risk of respiratory infection. Since respiratory illnesses trigger asthma attacks, by preventing cold and cough, vitamin C could reduce the risk of asthma attacks. Moreover, regular intake of vitamin C could prevent wheezing in asthma patients. To improve your lung function and to prevent the risk of bronchitis and wheezing, you would need at least 200mg of vitamin C per day. This is equivalent to having three oranges everyday. Vitamin C could protect the lungs from pollutants, preventing the risk of developing asthma symptoms triggered by air pollution. The antioxidant property of vitamin C could prevent inflammation of the airways. It also acts as an antihistamine, reducing the risk of developing asthma from exposure to allergens.
Magnesium
By reducing inflammation of the airways, magnesium, found in whole grains, beans and nuts, could help to reduce the symptoms of asthma.
Zinc and selenium
Nuts, beans, peas and whole grains contain zinc and selenium. Including foods containing these minerals in your daily diet could reduce the risk of asthma.
Omega-3 fatty acids
These essential fatty acids could prevent inflammation of the airways.
