Top 4 Foods to Avoid if You Have Asthma
This article highlights four common foods that asthma sufferers should avoid to help prevent attacks. It emphasizes dietary choices alongside medical treatments, explaining how dairy, eggs, peanuts, and shellfish can trigger symptoms. The piece also reviews current asthma medications like Tezepelumab and FASENRA®, offering insights into effective management strategies. By understanding these dietary triggers and treatment options, individuals with asthma can better control their condition and enjoy improved quality of life.
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Top 4 Foods to Limit for Asthma Management
Asthma is a long-term lung condition characterized by airway inflammation that leads to breathing difficulties. Excess mucus buildup in the lungs can intensify symptoms such as shortness of breath. While medications are essential, dietary adjustments also play a crucial role in managing asthma. Steering clear of certain foods may help decrease attack frequency and severity.
Dairy Products
Consuming dairy like milk can increase mucus production, possibly worsening asthma symptoms. Healthcare professionals often recommend limiting dairy intake and choosing alternatives like probiotic-rich yogurt.
Experts also suggest avoiding processed dairy products containing preservatives.
Eggs
Eggs are nutritious but can trigger asthma attacks in some individuals, especially those with egg allergies. They may cause flare-ups and worsen symptoms. Instead, consider plant-based proteins such as soy, lentils, and tofu, and always check food labels for egg ingredients.
Peanuts
Peanuts are common allergens that can cause severe reactions, including anaphylactic shock, which impairs breathing and causes blood pressure drops. Children with asthma are particularly vulnerable to peanut allergens. Eliminating peanut-based foods can help prevent such dangerous episodes.
Shellfish
Shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster contain high levels of sulfites, which are significant asthma triggers. Avoiding these foods can reduce attack risks, especially since sulfites exacerbate airway inflammation.
Managing asthma involves avoiding certain trigger foods in addition to using prescribed medications. Medications such as Tezepelumab, a monoclonal antibody that reduces airway inflammation, can significantly alleviate symptoms. Other options include Nucala (Mepolizumab) and FASENRA® for severe eosinophilic asthma, administered via injections to improve lung function and decrease attack frequency.
