5 Worst Foods For Asthma

Asthma is a respiratory illness that affects one in 12 people around the world, making it one of the most common respiratory diseases globally. People with asthma generally have allergies that trigger an asthma attack. These triggers include dust mites, animal dander, moulds, pollen, and many other, even certain foods. This article aims to highlight the worst foods that could trigger an asthmatic attack.

1. Eggs

Eggs are normally responsible for allergies of the skin such as hives. However, eggs could also contribute to an asthmatic reaction. Egg allergies normally affect children and many tend to outgrow them, but there are many cases where the allergy stays throughout adulthood. The best way to identify an egg allergy is to visit your physician or allergist and request a detailed test.

2. Milk

Milk allergies normally result in severe reactions and are known to cause wheezing and close the airways. Though data is still inconclusive as to whether milk and other dairy products can exacerbate asthma, there are studies that show that it can. However, milk is also one of the best sources of vitamin D, which may ease the symptoms of asthma. Therefore, if you are an asthmatic, try to consume milk and dairy products with caution. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

3. Peanuts

Peanuts are known to cause potentially fatal allergic reactions, but they can also cause allergic asthma reactions too. A study found children with asthma who also had a peanut allergy seemed to develop asthma earlier than kids without a peanut allergy and were also more likely to be hospitalised and more likely to need steroids. Studies have also shown that asthmatic children with peanut allergies are more susceptible to asthmatic triggers such as grass, weeds, cats, pollen, and dust mites.

4. Salt

Like milk, studies are inconclusive about whether salt provokes asthma attacks. However, what all experts agree on is that asthma is inflammation and tightening of the airways, and salt can contribute to inflammation by causing fluid retention. Either way, reducing one’s sodium intake is definitely great for your health, asthmatic or not.

5. Shellfish

Shellfish allergies are mostly prevalent in children. However, they can stay through adulthood. Like peanut and milk allergies, an allergic reaction to shellfish could close your airways and trigger an asthma attack. Avoid eating crab, crayfish, lobster, and shrimp dishes, as these are the ones that trigger reactions in most. Although scallops, oysters, clams, and mussels cause fewer reactions, consult your physician or allergist before consuming them.