Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects millions of people across the world. It is a long-term and chronic condition in which a person’s airways become inflamed and narrow. This causes difficulty in breathing as there is limited oxygen getting into a person’s lungs. Asthma is incurable, but can be managed if monitored properly to avoid interruptions in daily activities and to prevent asthma attacks. Asthma symptoms can have long-term effects on one’s breathing.

A strict diet can help to control and limit asthma flare ups:

1. It’s all about omega-3 and vitamin C

Studies have indicated that those that follow a Mediterranean-style diet have a reduced chance of developing asthma. This diet consists of foods that are high in omega-3, such as olive oil, fish, fruit, and whole grains. In addition, green leafy vegetables that contain high levels of vitamin C, such as spinach, promote healthy immune systems. For asthmatics, these foods contain folate which can help reduce the dangerous effects of asthma.

2. Magnesium is king

Foods that are high magnesium are also proven to help those with asthma and seasonal allergies. Magnesium helps to relax the muscles that surround the air passageways which can have a counter effect to the tightening of the airways and surrounding muscles. Milk and other dairy products are not only an excellent source of calcium for strong bones and muscles, but are a great source for magnesium as well. In addition, flax seeds are also high in magnesium and asthmatics should incorporate into their diet. This nutrient is very effective in fighting asthma and foods that contain magnesium should be a part of any asthma sufferer’s diet.

3. Superfoods are superheroes for asthma sufferers

Superfoods are foods that are thought to be nutritionally dense and good for one’s health. Items such as ginger and avocados relax airways and reduce the stress and damage asthma can have on those passage ways. Carrots and berries also contain a healthy mix of nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants that combat inflammation and can be a great addition to the daily asthmatic diet.

Overall, anyone suffering with asthma should know which foods to include in their diets, as well as those that should be avoided. Eating a diet that is rich in magnesium, antioxidants, and vitamins can help reduce the symptoms of this chronic condition. Furthermore, these foods can actually limit the long-term damage that can caused by asthma inflammation and attacks. By incorporating foods that are rich in these elements within an asthma diet, those who suffer with asthma have hope and power to lead active and healthier lives.