How Does Diet Affect Asthma?

Asthma is among the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs) experienced by all age groups. Although it’s not commonly known, the foods people eat can affect asthma symptoms. Therefore, dietary changes can provide effective relief from some of the symptoms and side effects of asthma. According to the American Thoracic Society, “Asthma remains a major health problem worldwide that has increased in developed countries.” Every year, millions of families are impacted by the symptoms and side effects of asthma. Eating a healthier diet can help people manage this condition more effectively. LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers nourishing and balanced home-delivered meals to help people make healthier dietary choices.

What Causes Asthma Symptoms?

The causes of symptoms of asthma vary. Each person may have different factors impacting their likelihood of being diagnosed with asthma. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), “Asthma is a chronic (long-term) condition that affects the airways in the lungs.” A person’s airways “can become inflamed and narrowed,” making breathing difficult.

Some of the most common causes of asthma symptoms include:

• Physical or emotional stress
• Respiratory infections
• Smoking
• Genetics
• Physical activity
• Allergens, including pollen and mold

Asthma symptoms sometimes worsen due to environmental factors, including fumes or air pollution. Diet and lifestyle changes may provide relief and reduce the side effects of asthma. Avoiding triggers, including certain foods, can help people successfully manage their condition. According to MedlinePlus, “If you have asthma, you will work with your health care provider to create a treatment plan … to manage your asthma symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.” Treatment plans for managing asthma may include home-delivered meals tailored to ensure people avoid any triggering foods.

What Foods Affect Asthma Symptoms?

Sulfites and other substances in some foods may trigger asthma symptoms. Any food sensitivity, intolerance, or allergy may also exacerbate asthma symptoms. Researchers are uncertain how food sensitivities, sulfites, and other factors may contribute to the development of asthma and the severity of symptoms. People benefit from limiting their exposure to foods that may worsen their condition.

Sulfites are found in the following food and drinks:

• Wine
• Beer
• Processed potatoes
• Shrimp
• Some dried fruit

People are often unaware that wine and beer have sulfite additives and that drinking them may cause mild to severe asthma symptoms. A registered dietitian or other nutritional expert can provide guidance on what foods to avoid to reduce asthma symptoms. LifeSpring Home Nutrition has registered dietitians who can speak with clients and provide information about how to manage asthma through diet and other means.

How Does a Healthier Diet Affect Asthma?

Asthma affects multiple body systems and can put immense strain on the respiratory system. Effectively managing the condition reduces the risk of chronic health issues or death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2022, approximately 147,382 people died from “[c]hronic lower respiratory diseases (including asthma).”

Altering their diets can help people who have diet-related triggers to improve their overall health and protect themselves from potential life-threatening asthma attacks. Home-delivered meals make it easy for people to eat a variety of tasty foods without putting their health at risk. The extensive catalog of food options includes many anti-inflammatory dishes.

Reducing Inflammation and Strengthening the Immune System

Asthma symptoms are connected to immune responses. Respiratory infections and other health conditions may worsen asthma symptoms or cause asthma attacks. According to the CDC, “Respiratory infections like influenza (flu), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus, can be more serious for individuals with asthma because they can lead to pneumonia and asthma attacks.” Vaccines protect people from respiratory infections. People can also reduce inflammation or other symptoms caused by infections by eating anti-inflammatory foods.

Allergens and environmental factors may impact which foods will negatively affect people with asthma. Some foods known to reduce inflammation include:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Salmon and other fatty fish
• Some fruits and berries
• Almonds and walnuts

According to the publication Anti-Inflammatory Diets by Alexander Scheiber and Victoria Mank, “Dietary modifications are one of many interventions that help reduce systemic inflammation.” Avoiding foods that increase inflammation and increasing foods known to reduce inflammation helps people manage asthma symptoms. LifeSpring Home Nutrition offers a variety of meal options that include nutritious, anti-inflammatory foods.

How Do Home-Delivered Meals From LifeSpring Home Nutrition Affect Asthma?

According to the previously mentioned article by the NHLBI, “About one in 13 people in the United States have asthma.” LifeSpring Home Nutrition fills the gap in healthcare for many who might otherwise not have access to a diet that reduces asthma symptoms. Some people may experience life-threatening asthma attacks without the support services offered by community-based programs, including home-delivered meals.

People often find it easier to manage their asthma when they have additional support and guidance. Asthma is a potentially life-threatening condition. Individuals diagnosed with asthma who experience food-related triggers benefit from speaking with their doctor about meal delivery services and other options for managing their symptoms.

Asthma is a common medical condition experienced by people of all ages. Diet plays a significant role in how symptoms of asthma manifest. Individuals who eat foods that aggravate the immune response often experience asthma attacks and more severe or persistent symptoms. People can reduce their risk of asthma attacks and manage their condition successfully by making lifestyle changes and eating a personalized diet. Everyone has different nutritional needs. Individuals with asthma should ask a doctor, nutritionist, dietitian, or other medical professional how to create a healthier diet. LifeSpring Home Nutrition provides medically tailored meals (MTMs) to individuals with asthma or other conditions. Learn more about our services by calling us today at (800) 798-5767.