Food plays a vital role when it comes to allergies and intolerances. Studies state that the regular consumption of more processed foods compared to fresh foods can be linked to adverse immune system reactions and higher cases of asthma. However, some foods, such as almonds, apples, broccoli, and salmon, can also help relieve asthma symptoms. Here are eight such foods that individuals going through asthma may add to their food regime.

1. Vitamin E-rich foods
Vitamin E-rich sources like almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds and oil, hazelnuts, avocados and spinach contain tocopherol, a potent antioxidant. This chemical compound helps decrease the risk of asthma symptoms like coughing and wheezing along with supporting lung health.

2. Fruits with vitamin C and flavonoids
Brightly colored fruits like cherries, apples, oranges, grapes, and strawberries contain flavonoids and vitamin C and are rich in antioxidants, presenting as the best sources for asthma patients. Further, their anti-inflammatory benefits help overall lung health and respiratory function.

3. High beta-carotene foods
Converted into vitamin A once ingested into the body, beta carotene has immune-modulatory properties, anti-inflammatory properties and also supports lung function. So, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, cantaloupes, apricots and broccoli are better suited for asthma patients due to their ability in helping reduce asthma symptoms.

4. Vitamin D-rich foods
Sufficient and proper intake of vitamin D is also linked to the reduced number of asthma attacks in children 6 to 15 years of age. The best sources include milk, fortified orange juice, eggs, salmon, and fortified milk. However, it is also important to take note of individual allergies to eggs or milk, which can also manifest as asthma in patients after allergic reactions.

5. Foods with high magnesium levels
A study shows that children between the ages of 11 and 19 with low magnesium levels also showed low lung volume and flow. One way this can be effectively remedied is through an intake of food items like spinach, Swiss chard, salmon, dark chocolate and pumpkin seeds, leading to increased magnesium levels.

6. Vitamin A sources
A study showed that lower levels of vitamin A were noted especially in the blood of children with asthma as compared to those without the condition. Higher vitamin A levels are also seen to result in better lung function even in children with asthma. Kale, romaine lettuce, sweet potatoes, cantaloupes, carrots, spinach and broccoli are considered great sources of vitamin A.

7. Fish
Fatty fish, particularly herring, sardines, salmon, and tuna, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Due to this, they help decrease immunoglobulin E amounts produced in the body. This is particularly important for asthma patients as this is an antibody causing breathing problems in some asthma patients.

8. Bananas
A survey found that bananas might help reduce wheezing in children patients with asthma. This has been linked to the potassium and antioxidant content in the banana, which has the potential to improve and aid lung function.

Conclusion
While the above-mentioned food items are known to help with asthma symptoms, it is important to note and remember that these can only indirectly relieve the condition’s symptoms. In cases of severe asthma patients, such foods might only have a miniscule effect, leading to the need of proper treatment for relief.