Foods rich in antioxidants include fresh fruits and vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables, tomatoes and carrots. A good rule of thumb is that brightly-colored vegetables, specifically those that are red, purple, dark green, dark yellow or orange, are richest in antioxidants.
Although many people believe that green vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, iceberg lettuce and green pepper are great choices, the truth is there are many other vegetables that are richer in vitamins and antioxidants than those options.
Antioxidants are believed to boost the immune system. Since the immune system is invoved in asthma, it is believed that this is the explanation for the connection between high antioxidant intake and reduction in asthma risk.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Another "health food" for asthmatics may be things rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish like salmon, walnuts and flax seeds all contain high levels of these fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids are reported to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Since asthma is connected with inflammation of the airways, it is believed that lessening the inflammation will make you feel and breathe better.
Supplements, Herbs and Vitamins
You may read many claims that taking this or that "natural" supplement, vitamin or herb will help with asthma. That may or may not be true; most of those claims are unproven, from a scientific viewpoint.
What we do know, though, is that getting vitamins, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids as a natural part of your diet is almost always going to be the most healthy way to go about things. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, and chances are your asthma will remain under control.
