While no specific diet can cure asthma, choosing the right food and nutrition can definitely ease the symptoms and reduce the chances of a relapse. When it comes to breathing difficulties and food, here is a list of the best and worst foods for you.

1. Choose vitamin D-rich foods
Vitamin D is essential nutrition that the body makes when exposed to sunlight. Many experts believe that people who don’t have adequate vitamin D levels in the body are at a higher risk of developing asthma. This is especially true in children. Apart from sunlight exposure, here are some vitamin D-rich foods that you can consume to prevent asthma.

• Egg yolks
• Liver
• Fatty fish
• Mushrooms

2. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables
When it comes to breathing difficulties and food, there is nothing better than fresh fruits and veggies to ease the condition. A nutrition-based study published in 2017 mentions that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is considered better for asthma conditions. In contrast, a diet that consists of packaged and frozen foods and red meats and sugar is considered harmful for those with asthma. Such foods can trigger asthma attacks frequently.

3. Include omega-3 eicosapentaenoic acids (EPA)
EPA is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is extremely healthy for the body. Research shows that it is especially good for those with existing asthma conditions. EPA can help in asthma management by preventing triggers and controlling the immune system.

4. Stay away from spicy foods
For some people, too much spice can lead to acid reflux triggers, and this can create symptoms similar to that of asthma. In people with current asthmatic symptoms, acid reflux can make it worse. While you can have spicy foods regularly, when the asthma relapses, stay away from spice.

5. Be cautious about foods that trigger allergies
Allergies are something you should consider seriously when you explore breathing difficulties and food. Some people may be allergic to certain kinds of foods like nuts, eggs, or seafood. Maintain a food diary and make a note of the foods that create allergy symptoms. Breathing difficulties and constriction of the airways are some of the symptoms of an allergic breakout. This can hence make asthma worse.

6. Mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids
MFAs and PFAs are healthy fats that keep the body healthy and strong. People with asthma may benefit by choosing MFAs and PFAs over saturated fats and trans fats.

Breathing difficulties and food have a direct relationship. If you have asthma, then making the right changes to your diet can make a great difference in the number of relapses and intensity of the condition.