An Apple a Day

Dietary changes and daily supplements can help prevent asthma attacks and treat the adrenal gland exhaustion that often goes with them.

By Barbara Benagh

In addition to avoiding irritants such as smoke, dust, animal dander, and sulfites, you may want to monitor your diet and eliminate or add certain items. Common food allergens that might cause an asthma attack include eggs, fish, shellfish, nuts, peanuts, milk, chocolate, wheat, citrus, and food coloring.

A healthy vegetarian diet is often recommended for asthma sufferers. Daily nutritional supplements can help prevent attacks and treat the adrenal gland exhaustion that often goes with them. Before changing your diet or taking supplements, consult your physician.

Dietary Suggestions

Eat as little processed food as possible.

Eat an apple a day. They are rich in flavonoids, which function as antioxidants and reduce inflammation.

Avoid dairy products if your asthma produces excess mucus.

Drink plenty of water to loosen mucus and keep airways moist.

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin A (10,000 IU) Plays a role in preventing colds and flu.

Vitamin E (400 IU) An antioxidant that can increase the capacity of blood to carry oxygen.

Vitamin B-6 (100 mg) Promotes immune function and the formation of hemoglobin.

Zinc (15-30 mg) This immune system enhancer also supports the adrenal glands.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (3 tablespoons flaxseed oil daily) Reduces acute inflammatory response and repairs lung damage.

Selenium (250 mcg) An antioxidant that protects against immune system hypersensitivity.

Magnesium glycinate, oratate, or aspartate in chelated form for easier absorption (up to 800 mg) Intravenous magnesium is used in hospitals to halt asthma attacks because it relaxes the smooth muscles of the air passages. Start with small doses several times daily with food and increase dosage gradually to avoid diarrhea. Even if you usually do not take supplements, this one is strongly recommended.

Amino Acids

L-Arginine (500-1,000 mg) The lung lining cells use this amino acid to form the gas nitric oxide, which dilates the small airways in the lungs.

L-Tyrosine (100-200 mg) This amino acid is depleted with corticosteroid use and contributes to adrenal exhaustion.

Herbal Remedies

Quercetin (1,000-2,000 mg) Reduces inflammation.

Licorice Root Extract (1 teaspoon) Supports the adrenal glands.

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