There are no specific guidelines related to food that can help cure asthma. However, there are changes that can be made to eating patterns and preferences that can help better manage the condition. Healthy food choices can help lower the frequency of asthma flare-ups. Well-balanced meals are, of course, a helping hand in this journey. But at the same time, it is equally important to be aware of foods that need to be avoided.
Let’s have a look at some foods that trigger asthma and its symptoms.
- Soy
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology has listed soy along with other common foods that cause intolerance or result in allergic reactions. If one has a known allergy to soy, it can also lead to a flare-up in asthma symptoms. It is, therefore, best to avoid soy. - Dried fruits
Dried fruits are packed with nutrients that help nourish the body. But, at the same time, they are also concentrated sources of sulfites. It is useful in the preservation of dried fruit but can prove to be an aggravator of symptoms for people with asthma. - Beans
Beans are often associated with foods that cause gastric discomfort and result in acid reflux, gas, and/or bloating. All of this results in tightness of the chest and pressure over the diaphragm. This ultimately leads to aggravation in symptoms. Beans are therefore considered an unfavorable vegetable for asthma patients. - Shrimp
Frozen shrimp can be a bad choice for asthma patients. It is because of the sulfite used for preserving it. Therefore, it is safe to consume fresh or no shrimp in food if unsure of its status.
Apart from the above-mentioned foods, there are medicines that help manage asthma easily. Doctors often prescribe these medications to patients to help suppress their flare-ups or frequency.
- FASENRA®
FASENRA® is an immunosuppressive medication that targets the eosinophils in the body and is used as a maintenance medication for patients. It is available in the form of subcutaneous injection and is administered for patients aged 12 years or more. FASENRA® asthma Rx prescription discounts include Patient Assistance Programs for under or uninsured patients, printed or digital discount coupons applicable in various pharmacies, and rebate offers that allow them to save on these expensive medications. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a savings program that enables patients to save on out-of-pocket expenses. - DUPIXENT®
DUPIXENT® is another prescription medication containing dupilumab that doctors use for asthma patients. It also assists in the treatment of rhinosinusitis caused by nasal polyps and moderate to severe eczema. Like FASENRA®, DUPIXENT® is also an immunosuppressive medication. DUPIXENT® discount coupons can be found on pharmacy websites, or patients can make use of DUPIXENT MyWay Copay Card that the manufacturer provides to commercially insured patients. - TEZSPIRE
TEZSPIRE or Tezepelumab is an FDA-approved asthma relief option for those aged 12 years and above. Tezepelumab is a human monoclonal antibody that blocks TSLP (thymic stromal lymphopoietin) associated with an increased risk of pulmonary illnesses like asthma. Tezepelumab is administered subcutaneously. It is a prescription form of treatment, and the dosage is decided by doctors based on the severity of the disease.