How Food Can Impact Asthma Symptoms

​Home Care Services Evanston IL - How Food Can Impact Asthma Symptoms

Asthma is a condition that causes the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs to become inflamed. The insides of the tubes become sensitive to irritants, like allergens. Narrowed airways make it hard to breathe and cause coughing, wheezing, and a tight feeling in the chest. Although it’s important for older adults with asthma to follow the doctor’s treatment plan, new research suggests that the way asthmatics eat may affect their symptoms. 

Asthma and Diet Study 

A study conducted in France recently looked at the way people ate and their asthma symptoms. The study involved more than 34,000 participants. Approximately one fourth of the men had at least one symptom of asthma and a little more than a fourth of the women did, too.  

The study showed that men who consumed a healthy diet had a 30 percent less chance of having asthma-related symptoms. Women were 20 percent less likely. The researchers defined a healthy diet as one that included lots of vegetables, fruit, and fiber.  

Dietary Steps to Reduce Asthma Symptoms 

While there isn’t a specific diet for managing asthma, doctors at the Mayo Clinic suggest taking these steps to help: 

Eat for a Healthy Weight: Older adults who are overweight should seek to lose some weight. Excess weight can make asthma symptoms worse. Losing even a few pounds can make a difference. 

Stay Away from Allergy Triggers: People with asthma are more likely to have food allergies. Having an allergic reaction to a food can trigger asthma symptoms. 

Get More Vitamin D: Having severe asthma has been associated with low vitamin D levels. Eating foods that contain vitamin D, like milk, fish, and eggs, can increase levels as can spending some time outside in the sun.  

Eat More Produce: Fruits and vegetables antioxidants and vitamins that may reduce inflammation.  

Avoid Foods with Sulfites: Sulfites are a kind of preservative found in foods like pickles, dried fruits, and wine. They can cause asthma symptoms for some individuals. 

In addition to possibly reducing asthma symptoms, eating a healthy diet can also improve the overall health of older adults. If your aging family member struggles to eat a healthy diet, home care services can help. Home care services providers can assist with planning meals. When it’s time to grocery shop, a home care services provider can drive the senior to the store and shop with them. Home care services providers can also prepare healthy meals and clean up afterward.  

Sources:  https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322438.php 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/expert-answers/asthma-diet/faq-20058105 

https://medlineplus.gov/magazine/issues/fall07/articles/fall07pg14.html 

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Evanston IL, contact the caring staff at Gentle Home Services. Call today (800) 860-9823.
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