Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in the country, with over 25 million people affected. Its primary cause is inflammation and narrowing in the lungs. While no food can cure asthma, certain studies state that avoiding some items can help in managing the symptoms of this illness. This article focuses on the top three foods to avoid for asthma and also suggests some medicines that may help in its treatment.

Top 3 Foods to Avoid for Asthma

Soy or other common allergens
If you have asthma, it is best to keep away allergic foods as it leads to a flare-up easily. Common food allergies are soy, eggs, cow’s milk, peanuts, wheat, fish, and tree nuts. For those who are not aware of their allergies, a doctor can perform a skin test to find out if you are sensitive to any foods. Make sure to read all ingredients on the food label as some products may be cross-contaminated.

Processed foods
Processed goods typically contain preservatives and artificial colors that could adversely affect the lungs, leading to inflammation. One should also avoid foods and medicines that contain parabens. Limit the intake of sugary drinks, ice cream, and hot dogs since they contain a color dye called tartrazine. Hot dogs, bologna, salami, and other processed foods contain preservatives known as nitrates or nitrites, which worsen asthma symptoms.

Fatty foods
Fatty foods like cakes, candies, potato chips, burgers, ice cream, French fries, red meat, etc,. contribute to inflammation in the lungs. These items contain empty calories, which lead to unhealthy weight gain. This could put pressure on the lungs, making them work harder and pull oxygen. However, not all fatty foods are bad. Some fats in fish, coconut oil, nuts, and seeds are healthy for asthma patients. It may be a good option to replace red meat with fish or other lean proteins.

Medication for asthma

FASENRA® (Benralizumab)
This prescription injection medicine works by decreasing white blood cells called eosinophils that may contribute to asthma. It is a monoclonal antibody that affects the body’s immunity. Fasenra® is typically used in combination with other asthma medicines in adults.

DUPIXENT® (Dupilumab)
It is used to treat moderate to severe eczema, asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. It belongs to a class of medications known as monoclonal antibodies that work on a particular part of the immune system.

NUCALA (mepolizumab)
NUCALA is another medicine option available as a prefilled autoinjector pen or prefilled syringe form. It helps in decreasing the inflammation in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. This injection is given under the skin into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.