Asthma

What Is It?
*Bronchial passages in the lungs constrict, or narrow making it harder for
oxygen to flow in and out of the lungs
*Inflammation of the airways

WHAT are the symptoms?
*Attack- like trying to breath through a straw
*Work much harder to catch their breath
*Lungs sensitive to cold weather, pet dander, smoke, dust, exercise, stress,
food, cigarette smoke, chemicals
*Wheezing, shortness of breath, and tightness in chest
Information:
*Women are more likely to have
*15 million Americans have Asthma
*Most chronic disease of childhood
*More common in children with allergies- test for food allergies
*50% of people with asthma- have heartburn due to changes the dynamics
of the chest

Diet for Asthma:
*Well-balanced diet- in maintaining a healthy immune system
*Avoid- nuts, milk, eggs, peanut butter, shellfish, wheat and soy
*For some citrus fruits trigger attacks as well as sulphites, yeast, caffeine
*Try organic fruits and vegetables, spices, tomatoes
*Elevate the head of the bed 8 inches
WHAT CAN I DO?
*See your Physician he may prescribe corticosteroid
*Test for food allergies
*Read all labels
*Talk with a Registered Dietitian for meal planning