Title: 5 Foods and Drinks That May Affect Asthma | Everyday Health
Headings: 5 Foods That May Trigger Asthma Flares
5 Foods That May Trigger Asthma Flares
Processed foods and certain high-fat foods have been linked to worse asthma symptoms.
Artificial Sweeteners
Processed Foods
Fatty Foods
Wine and Beer
Dairy
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Content: Research suggests that following a traditional Western diet, which is high in fat and processed foods, is linked to higher risk of asthma than following a diet with less processed food, according to a study published October 2014 in Pediatric Allergy and Immunology. And a study published in March 2017 in Thorax found eating processed meat four or more times per week was associated with worsened asthma symptoms over a seven-year period. Although the evidence for the effect of specific additives on asthma symptoms is limited, you may want to be wary of the following, according to the AAFA: Parabens Preservatives used in foods and medicines
Tartrazine A dye used in sugary drinks, ice cream, and hot dogs
Nitrates and nitrites Preservatives used in processed meats such as hot dogs, bologna, and salami
“As a general rule, if it came from a plant, eat it,” Dr. Gundersen says. “ If it was made in a plant, don’t eat it.” 538
Fatty Foods
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Desserts, red meat, and other fatty foods can worsen inflammation and lung function and exacerbate your asthma symptoms, according to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. These foods can also make it more difficult for you to maintain a healthy weight, which is vital when you have a chronic health condition like asthma, McCormack says. If you’re overweight, your lungs have to work harder, she adds, which can aggravate asthma symptoms. Not all fatty foods should be limited or avoided, however. McCormack emphasizes that some fats, such as those found in fish, avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, and nuts and seeds are healthy for people with asthma.