Food Remedies for Asthma
- According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the University of Maryland Medical Center, there are conflicting reports with regard to the use of omega-3 fatty acids in treating asthma. Most studies seem to agree that omega-3 is useful in treating asthma. However, in one or two studies, a case can be made that omega-3 fatty acids triggers or intensifies asthma attacks. This inconsistency is most likely due to the minimal case studies done on this subject. Nonetheless, DHHS considers the use of omega-3 fatty acids found in foods such as halibut, mackerel, salmon, sardines and tuna within the range of safe use. At this time, there is no test available to determine which category asthma sufferers would fall into.
- As with many medical conditions and diseases, an increase in certain fruits and vegetables can be effective. That is particularly true for those packed with antioxidants, those rich in vitamin B6, C, E and magnesium and those with carotenoids and flavonoids.
Some of the best vegetables choices include broccoli, carrots, chickpeas, chili peppers, mustard greens, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes and tomatoes. Garlic, onion and peppers are particularly useful. They open clogged airways and reduce mucous. Onions have anti-inflammatory properties that decrease or totally abate inflammation.
Good fruit choices include apples, figs, grapefruit, orange, peaches, strawberries and tangerines. Figs are helpful in clearing out excess mucous. - Coffee, because of its caffeine, tends to help prevent asthma attacks. Caffeine is a natural bronchial dilator.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, which naturally make it a possible treatment for asthma.
Nuts like almonds and cashews are rich in many of the ingredients used to treat asthma. These include vitamins B and E as well as antioxidants. Cashews, in particular, are rich in much needed magnesium.
Research into the effectiveness of certain types of seeds, particularly fennel, lettuce, pumpkin, safflower and sunflower, is ongoing. However, there does appear to be a case that could be made for their use as an asthma treatment because of they act as expectorants to break up mucous.
Seaweed is packed with minerals and proteins that help fight asthma.
Tofu contains Selenium, which is a powerful antioxidant proven useful in treating asthma.
While whole grains appear to work better at protecting children from getting asthma, other reports and studies are being pursued to determine their usefulness in treating the disease. Since many, most notably barley and brown rice, contain anti-inflammatory properties, they could prove to be a great asthma treatment.