Here is a list of foods for asthmatic patients that can help them experience some relief:
1. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Incorporating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet is a good idea if you are an asthma patient. The nutrients present in vegetables and fruits improve the condition of your lungs. Additionally, consuming fruits and vegetables improves symptoms like wheezing, according to some studies.
Apples improve lung function and reduce the risk of asthma. Additionally, bananas contain antioxidants and potassium, which help in decreasing wheezing.
2. Vitamin A-Rich Food Items
Asthma patients should add vitamin A-rich food items to their diet. Carrots, broccoli, lettuce, spinach, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes etc., are great foods for asthmatic patients.
Vitamin A-rich foods help patients fight oxidative stress due to their anti-oxidative properties. Furthermore, studies have shown that these food items improve lung function and reduce asthma attacks.
3. Vitamin D-Rich Food Items
Increasing the intake of vitamin D will have positive effects on asthma patients. According to a medical study, vitamin D deficiency influences inflammatory responses in the airways. Therefore, consumption of vitamin D-rich food items reduces the severity of asthma and improves lung condition.
People need to consume food that are rich sources of vitamin D like salmon, mushrooms, mackerel, cheese, yoghurt and milk. One can also consume fortified milk, fortified orange juice and eggs. However, patients who are allergic to dairy products or eggs should stay away from these food items.
4. Vitamin E-Rich Food Items
People who have asthma can consider adding food items containing vitamin E to their diet. Food sources for vitamin E include avocado, almonds, fish, olive oil, shellfish, spinach, tofu, sunflower seeds, broccoli etc.
Vitamin E contains a substance called tocopherol. It is a powerful antioxidant capable of decreasing wheezing and coughing.
5. Food Items Rich in Antioxidants
Asthma patients benefit from consuming food items rich in antioxidants. According to a study, symptomatic asthma is associated with the low consumption of antioxidant nutrients. Intake of foods rich in antioxidants protects the cells against damage. This reduces inflammation and supports the improvement and functioning of healthy lungs.
Antioxidant-rich food items include red cabbage, beets, spinach, artichokes, strawberries, blueberries, goji berries, raspberries, pecans and dark chocolate
6. Food Items Rich in Magnesium
Medical researchers have stated that magnesium-rich food items can help patients experience relief if they are suffering from asthma. This is because magnesium plays a dual role in being an anti-inflammatory and relaxing the bronchial muscles. This enables the air to leave the lungs easily.
Some food items rich in magnesium are dark chocolate, bananas, avocados, nuts, seeds, whole grains, salmon and whole grains.
7. Whole Grains
Regular consumption of whole grain food items can reduce the symptoms of asthma. A diet rich in whole grains can improve lung function and reduce asthma symptoms. These food items are rich in fibre, minerals and vitamins.
So, people who have asthma can consider including foods prepared from whole oats, bulgur wheat, brown rice, barley and buckwheat in their diet. Whole wheat bread, pasta and crackers are some of the best foods for asthmatic patients.