Can your diet influence asthma? Absolutely. What you eat significantly affects your respiratory system. Therefore, a crucial component of managing asthma involves careful dietary considerations.
Asthma, as defined by medical research, is an allergic inflammation of the lungs. Various triggers can induce asthma attacks, including chemicals, air pollution, pollen, mold, dust, pet dander, certain foods, exercise, and even temperature fluctuations.
From personal experience battling asthma from age 7 to 20, diet stands out as the most influential factor affecting respiratory and overall health.
This principle is central to respiratory health programs like Dr. Buteyko’s “Breath Retraining Program for Asthmatics.” Many chronic asthmatics have reportedly reduced or eliminated their reliance on inhalers by following his dietary recommendations.
My journey to clear acne led me to a dietary change that surprisingly alleviated my asthma, halitosis, and lethargy. This positive impact motivated me to research and discover programs like Dr. Buteyko’s.
The core dietary advice is simple: eliminate processed foods and animal products (meat, milk, eggs, etc.) from your diet.
Two relevant quotes emphasize this approach: “You are what you eat” and “Let food be thy medicine and medicine thy food.”
The primary physical symptom during an asthma attack, characterized by wheezing and coughing, is mucus production.
The aforementioned foods are highly mucus-forming. Their digestion often results in excessive mucus and phlegm buildup. Given the lungs’ crucial role in excretion, consuming these substances can negatively impact the body.
Furthermore, based on personal experience, avoid drinking liquids during meals. This impairs digestion by diluting essential digestive juices, hindering diaphragm expansion and constricting the lungs, potentially triggering wheezing.
So, what should asthmatics eat?
Focus on foods that are non-mucus forming, such as fruits and vegetables. Opt for organic produce whenever possible or avoid the “dirty dozen” list of pesticide-contaminated items like apples, grapes, and melons.
While other factors contribute to natural asthma management, diet remains the most critical aspect to monitor.
Remember, what you eat affects how you breathe, and how you breathe affects how you live. Breathe easier through mindful eating.