Asthma is a debilitating condition that affects over 5 million people in Britain, and more than 1 million of these are children. If you have asthma, your airways become inflamed, swollen and constricted, which in turn affects your lung function. Often, asthma is associated with severe mucus production that makes your condition worse.
While there are many over-the-counter medications available today, there are natural remedies for asthma that can give you a higher chance of recovery without the nasty side effects of a pharmaceutical drug. So if that pill fails to work, here are some delicious and nutritious remedies to try:
1.Avocado
Avocado is considered one of the most nutritious fruits in the universe because it contains high levels of L-glutathione which is widely regarded as a ‘master antioxidant’. L-glutathione doesn’t just destroy free radicals from your body but also helps alleviate inflammation which usually triggers asthma.
2.Banana
It’s probably the reason why monkeys rarely have asthma! In a British study, researchers found that children who ate just one banana reduced their risk of developing asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing by 34 per cent. The reason behind this healing effect is pyridoxine or vitamin B6, which is known to aid in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) ankiid cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) – key molecules that help relax bronchial muscle tissues, allowing you to breathe properly.
3.Spinach
If you want to be as strong as Popeye, don’t forget your spinach! This super food has been widely regarded by experts for its amazing health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system and fight asthma. In a study involving 68, 535 women, researchers discovered that high consumption of spinach could lower the risk of developing asthma. Spinach is the number one source of beta-carotene, and contains high amount of vitamin C and E, as well as potassium – an anti-asthma mineral.
4.Water
Did you know that dehydration can cause asthma? In fact, majority of asthma-related incidents have been linked to dehydration. Many times, asthmatic symptoms are a sign that your body is in need of water. So make sure you have your 8-glass a day of clean water. The more, the better!
5.Kiwi
This fruit is a haven of vitamin C. In fact, just 2.2 ounces of chopped kiwi already contains your daily requirement of vitamin C! This delicious and nutritious fruit has been shown to provide beneficial effects to children with respiratory problems, including asthma. Adding kiwi fruit in your daily can be the solution to your asthma.
6.Apple
If you’re pregnant and you don’t like your child to develop asthma, you may benefit from eating apples regularly. A study reveals that pregnant women who ate at least four apples a week were 53 per cent less likely to have a child with doctor-confirmed asthma. Another research found that children who drink apple juice are 50 per cent less likely to develop the same condition.
7.Rosemary
This fragrant herb, which is native to Mediterranean diet, contains an active compound that has been shown to alleviate asthma symptoms. Rosemary is high in antioxidants and inflammatory agents that stimulate cells to produce prostacyclin – a substance that keeps the air passages of the lungs open and promote easy breathing.
8.Buckwheat
According to experts, many cases of asthma are due to allergic reaction. Buckwheat is considered a hypoallergenic food, which means it is unlikely to trigger your allergy. Not only that. Buckwheat is also high in magnesium – an essential mineral that alleviates constricted bronchial tubes by relaxing its muscle tissues.
9.Elderberry
If you’re not a fan of apples, you can actually get the same antioxidant it has from elderberry – one of the richest plant-based sources of quercetin. Experts suggest that this antioxidant is effective in blocking the release of histamines and other allergic, as well as inflammatory compounds in the body.
10.Flaxseed
Sprinkle this on your daily cereal or afternoon yogurt to reduce your risk of asthma. Flaxseeds are high in potassium and magnesium which are incredible anti-asthma agents. It also contains selenium and omega-3 fatty acids – essential compounds that boost the immune system.
Dear Readers,
Why go through this painful condition when you can get away from it? With these ten super foods, you can say goodbye to asthma!
Other than healthy diet, what other lifestyle tips can you recommend to those suffering from asthma?
