Asthma difficulties can cause inflammation in the airways until they eventually become permanently damaged, which makes the tissues in the airways extremely vulnerable to further inflammation. And there we have the vicious cycle which is asthma.
We know that keeping the air clean is one very important precautionary in minimizing the inflammation, but this is becoming increasingly difficult due to today's indoor air quality problems, which are at an all time high.
Fortunately, a well thought-out nutritional plan can also help reduce inflammation, and therefore reducing asthma problems.
A strategic nutritional plan is especially crucial when you consider that asthmatics are more likely to be afflicted by certain nutrient deficiencies as a result of asthma medications and the stress associated with this condition.
Most importantly though, there are certain nutrients that offer specific benefits for those with asthma, such as natural anti-inflamation, anti-oxidation, and anti-histaminic.
A good nutritional plan with specific benefits for asthma sufferers is very important to them especially we need to consume 1kg of food every day.
1) Antioxidants
Why: They defend against free radicals, which cause irritation and inflammation (common for asthmatics)
Where are the sourcess: Plenty of fruits and vegetables are better than vitamin pills. An apple a day keep asthma away.
2) Fish Oil (avoid if fish allergies are suspected)
Why: Anti-inflammatory
Where are the sources: Having fish twice a week or fish oil concentrate (capsules) are your best sources. Consume cod liver oil is another source.
3) Magnesium
Why: Asthmatics are chronically deficient of it. Helps to relax the bronchial tubes and smooth the esophagus muscle.
Where are the soures: Milk and other dairy products, whole grains, nuts, legumes, leafy green vegetables.
4) Multivitamins with B complex (especially Vitamins B6 & B12)
Why: Asthmatics are typically deficient of these according to Nutritional Medicine.
Where are the sources: Multivitamin supplements, especially those strong in B6 & B12.
5) Vegetables that contain folic acid
Why: Asthmatics typically deficient.
Where are the sources: Dried beans, peas, lentils, oranges, whole-wheat foods, liver asparagus, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and spinach.
6) N-acetylcysteine
Why: Antioxidant that thins the bronchial mucus.
Where are the sources: Forms of amino acid that is well-absorbed or using amino acid supplements.
7) Vegetables that contain Vitamin B5
Why: Helps to form antibodies.
Where are the sources: Eggs, fish, milk and other dairy, whole-grain cereals, white/sweet potatoes, lean beef, legumes, yeast, broccoli, capsules, and shiitake mushrooms (Japanes/Chinese delicatessen)
8) Quercetin
Why: It is a natural anti-histamine according to the US Dept. of Agriculture. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory.
Where are the sources: It is a plant extract or consuming vegetable food supplements.
The above served as a guide on using nutritional plan with relevant food supplements to improve the asthma condition.
Do not make changes to your medication regimen without the supervision of a qualified medical practitioner.
