Asthma
By and large, most everyday food and drinks do not directly trigger asthma. However,
food allergies can occur and other unpleasant reactions to food and drink such as
wheezing are fairly common.
- Be aware of food allergies. Allergies to nuts, sesame products, shellfish,
dairy products or eggs can indirectly lead to an asthma attack. Keep a food diary
for a couple of weeks if you have any concerns and speak to your practice nurse
or doctor.
-
Enjoy a sandwich and a glass of milk. According to Asthma UK, tests
have shown that full cream milk, brown bread and butter may help to
relieve the symptoms of asthma. Be careful however, if you suffer from
high cholesterol or another condition for which full cream dairy products
are not recommended.
- Don't worry about milk. Many people believe that milk creates mucous in
their airways, but this has been shown to be untrue and only a temporary thickening
of saliva occurs.
- Watch your E-numbers. Some people find that foods containing sodium metabisulphite
(E220-277), such as wine, home-brewed beer, prepared meats and prepared salads,
affect their asthma but not via an allergic reaction.