Five Foods to Fight Asthma

Research has shown the following foods – which can help you win against asthma.

1. Salmon

The omega-3 fats in salmon (and other cold water fish) are anti-inflammatory. So are the omega-3’s in flaxseeds. Asthmatics will benefit by having more anti-inflammatory compounds in their diet. Wild salmon fits the bill, as do sardines.

2. Spinach and Kale

People with asthma tend to have lower levels of magnesium, and these foods are magnesium heavyweights. By one survey, more than 70 percent of Americans don’t get their diet. Magnesium relaxes muscles and may relax the upper respiratory muscles that tend to spasm in asthma.

3. Red peppers

They’re high in Vitamin c, which is particularly helpful in reducing the symptoms of exercise-induced asthma. According to Alan Gaby, M.D., vitamin C inhibits production of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase, which is how many asthma drugs work. And red peppers are also high in vitamin A, which is often low in people who suffer from asthma attacks.

4. Chinese cabbage

This vegetable is a great source of vitamin B6, which appears to help correct abnormalities in metabolism frequently found in asthmatics. Stress is a big trigger for asthma, and vitamin B6 is a great stress-buster. Brewer’s yeast, bananas, garbanzo beans, and chicken are other good sources.

5. Onions

This root vegetable is another great source of anti-inflammatory properties, particularly the wonderful flavonoid quercetin, which has anti-allergic properties as well. Accoring to Gaby, onions also contain compounds that relax the bronchial passageways. (Caution: Raw and pickled onions may provoke asthma attacks in a small number of sensitive people, according to personal chef and food coach Lisa Turner)

(source: The Healthiest Meals on Earth by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S.)