I have asthma (my mom smoked 2 packs of cigarettes a day while carrying me). I’ve had to depend on a puffer every year of my life which may have contributed to my COPD. What is COPD? COPD includes diseases such as irreversible asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and bronchiectasis. When our airways are inflamed, they become narrower. This starts a lung disease called asthma – and there is no known cure, but there are ways to temporarily treat symptoms when they occur.
• If you produce a lot of mucus…
• Have trouble breathing…
• Are constantly wheezing…
• Feel chest tightness…
Then read on …..
1. Avocado
Avocado, with its high levels of L-glutathione, protects our cells from free radical damage (such as histamine). This trendy fruit can be prepared in a variety of ways, because it is literally considered “the master of antioxidants.”
2. Honey
Mixing 1 tsp. of honey in a cup of warm water (3x a day) removes phlegm from your throat and treats asthma symptoms. (It also reduces cholesterol levels, prevents and treats gingivitis and digests pre-accumulated fat.) You can even add 1/2 tbsp. of cinnamon to 3 tbsp. of honey mixed in 1 tbsp. of lemon juice.
3. Kale
Kale has more vitamin C per cup than a whole orange; this vitamin reduces muscle contraction in our airway passages. This veggie is also loaded with beta-carotene (an antioxidant phytochemical) which, among with alleviating asthma symptoms, also has packed levels of vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, B6, manganese and more.
4. Garlic
If you don’t mind stinky breath: Garlic obliterates lung congestion and reduces airway inflammation. This is largely due to vitamin C, which neutralises the molecules causing airway constriction. To use this:
• Crush 3 cloves of garlic
• Add to 2 cups of hot water
• Boil until 1 cup is left
• Let sit for 5 minutes
• Enjoy
5. Coffee
The relationship between caffeine and asthma is an issue that’s been happening for a while. Coffee immediately treats asthma attacks or symptoms as they happen. How? Because the caffiene expands our airwaves, making it easier for us to breathe.
6. Spinach
Spinach is largely considered the “king of super foods” because it is stuffed with vitamin C, beta-carotene, vitamin E, potassium, zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium. Magnesium deficiency and asthma sufferers are quite common.
7. Banana
Eating 1 banana a day reduces asthmatic symptoms. Most likely because bananas, rich is potassium and fiber, lowering blood pressure and fighting cancer – as it prevents the formation of free radicals. (Did I mention that bananas also strengthen heart health?)
8. Apple
WebMD revealed that expected mothers who ate apples might prevent asthma and wheezing in their newborns. The study also cites eating 1 banana a day (along with drinking apple juice) “improved wheezing occurrences.”
9. Water
Not having enough water vaper in the lungs causes airways to constrict. This provides mucus, which (in conjunction with constriction) form asthma attacks and symptoms.
Interestingly enough, coffee steals the badly-needed nutrients our bodies need from water – leading to dehydration. As your water source may be contaminated, it’s recommended to drink Brita water or water that’s been through a purification system.
10. Ginger
Aside from boosting immune systems, fighting cancer and other benefits that have been around for centuries, ginger also helps treat asthma – it keeps respiratory tracts in check. Along with airway-muscle relaxation, calcium uptake levels are regulated (responsible for lessening the asthma attack).
To enjoy the immense benefits of this anti-inflammatory spice:
• Grate gingerroot until you have 1 tsp. of grated ginger.
• Pour mixture in a glass of hot water
• Add 1 Tbsp. of honey
• Steep for 5 minutes and enjoy
CAUTION: Make sure you are not allergic to any of the foods listed here. Using foods you are allergic to will counteract the symptoms you are trying to get rid of – wasting your time and putting your health at risk. If necessary, consult your family doctor to talk about your plan to eat these foods.