Asthma is a potentially serious condition characterized by breathing difficulties. The airways of the lungs become inflamed and narrow, making air ventilation seriously challenging. People suffering from this condition are usually advised to follow a strict treatment procedure, in conjunction with certain dietary changes. A list of foods to have is useful in the short, and long-term, while a different set should be avoided at all costs. Today, we’ll be expanding on the latter by naming six foods that trigger asthma.

• Pickles

As good as they may taste, avoiding pickles is extremely important for patients suffering from asthma. It contains sulfites, which are chemical compounds used as a preservative in many foods. Pickles are also usually high in salt, which irritates the digestive tract and leads to a whole bunch of different problems that can, directly or indirectly, trigger asthma symptoms.

• Alcohol

Beer and wine are two beverages that worsen asthma. Both drinks contain histamines and sulfites, two compounds which, research suggests, are the biggest cause of concern for asthma patients. Histamines are present in higher amounts in red wine, and are also known to worsen allergic symptoms. As far as the severity of asthma attacks are concerned, it varies from one individual to another. Some patients undergo extreme symptoms, while others may get away with wheezing and coughing.

• Common food allergens

People suffering from asthma must steer clear of any food they’re allergic to. Common food allergens include peanuts, shellfish, cow’s milk, and eggs, among others. These can cause an allergic reaction, which is accompanied by chest tightness, sneezing, and difficulty in breathing. The latter is the most harmful and might make your asthma worse. Certain skin allergens are also dangerous and might cause similar problems.

• Beans

Although they come with a list of benefits, beans can cause discomfort in the digestive system. The seed leads to gas and stomach issues, mainly due to the body’s inability to digest the multiple nutrients in it. Hence, asthma patients must consume beans only in small quantities.

• Dried fruits

Dates, apricots, and raisins are some of the most commonly consumed dried fruits in the country. These fruits are deficient in their water content, and contain preservatives such as sulfites. The compound induces stomach pain and might immediately produce an asthma attack. Certain types of dried fruits are, additionally, high in sugar, which increases the risk of a whole new range of diseases. For best results, eat these fruits in small amounts.

• Cabbage

The vegetable is another one of those foods that looks healthy and nutritious, but might cause problems for asthma patients. Cabbage results in gas, which in turn, leads to digestive issues such as bloating and abdominal pain. Asthma symptoms might worsen as a result of such problems, and cause chest tightness and breathing difficulties. Hence, asthma patients must bring down their cabbage consumption to a bare minimum.