Asthma

Asthma attacks usually last only a few minutes but can be terrifying for the sufferer who gasps and struggles to catch enough air. In very severe cases, an asthma attack can be life threatening. 

During an asthma attack, the sphincter muscles in the bronchial tubes have spasms and tighten, not allowing enough air through to the lungs, causing the person to suffocate. The problem can intensify if there is an increased production of mucus and swelling of the respiratory mucous membranes. 

Many children who develop asthma at a young age are cured before reaching adulthood, however, there is always a risk of recurrence.

Asthma is often a reaction to an allergen in the environment, but it can also be triggered by strenuous exercise, cold air, emotional stress or an infection.

The most common allergenic triggers are chemicals, cigarette smoke, animal hair, dust and pollen. Food allergies are also often a cause of asthma and can vary a great deal from one person to another.

Common problem foods include cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, citrus fruits and all food additives. 

Delayed allergic reaction can sometimes render the culprit difficult to identify. There may be a link between asthma and cortisone treatment of allergic eczema.

In 1931, scientists showed that a sluggish digestive system with a deficiency in pancreatic enzymes or hydrochloric acid is another underlying cause for asthma.

Some studies also suggest that asthma may be candida related.

To control mucus membrane inflammation and dilute mucus, drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential. We should drink half our body weight in pound, in ounces of water every day (1 liter = 32 ounces). 

Food to favour: 

• Raw fruits and vegetables deliver digestive enzymes to stimulate digestion and eliminate toxins. 
• Raw sauerkraut provides beneficial bacteria to fight infection. 
• Onions and garlic are well-known antibiotics that help fight infections. They also contain sulphur, which has a cleansing effect. 
• Flax seed oil found in VegOmega-3 contains EPA, which is an anti-inflammatory essential fatty acid. 

To have a better control over asthma it is important to avoid the following foods: 

• Dairy products because they tend to increase mucus secretion 
• Eggs 
• Shellfish 
• Fish 
• Chocolate 
• Wheat products (white or whole) 
• Citrus fruits 
• Food coloring (especially yellow tartrazine or yellow no 5) 
• Sulphites (often found in salads, frozen French fries and avocado dips) 
• Animal proteins. When we eat animal products, our body produces leucotrienes, which contributes to inflammatory reactions. You can substitute with vegetal proteins such as legumes (peas, beans, lentils and all soy products), and raw seeds. 
• Nuts are to be avoided until tested for allergic reaction. If they are well tolerated, raw nuts are an excellent source of protein. 

Once asthma has been under control for a few months, sensitivity to these foods can be tested. To do so, reintroduce one food item per week, eating it several times during that week and observing its impact on the respiratory tract (laboured breathing, mucus secretion, etc.).

Several nutrients play an essential role for maintaining healthy lungs: Vitamin C and bioflavonoids stabilize cell walls during allergic responses, have an antihistamine effect, protect the body from toxin damages and increase resistance to infections. 

Magnesium relaxes muscle spasms in the bronchial tubes, reducing the incidence and severity of asthma. 

Vitamin B12 helps decrease sensitivity to sulphites. Vitamin B6 reduces the severity and number of asthma attacks when taken as a preventive measure. Pantothenic acid helps support the adrenals, which have a major impact on the immune system. 

Vitamin A and vitamin E are strong antioxidants that protect the body against pollutants. They are most important for healthy mucous membranes and tissue elasticity.  

Research indicates that bitter herbs such as the ones found in Boldocynara, have a huge impact on asthma. They help support digestion and toxin elimination. These herbs are often used in the treatment of liver and digestive problems. If you have never done a liver cleanse, start with a reduced dosage. 

Stinging Nettle is a very important plant for the lungs. It is rich in alkaline minerals and silica, a mineral that promotes healing of the respiratory membranes. Stinging Nettle helps eliminates toxins from the body and has a stabilizing effect on the histamine release during allergic reactions. It can be taken over long period of time with great benefits for asthma sufferers. 

Allergy Relief from A.Vogel will help reduce the impact of seasonal allergies on asthma and gradually help desensitize the body. It can also moderate the intensity of all other types of allergies. 

Finally, to support the immune system and reduce the risk of infection, Echinaforce from A.Vogel is excellent. It will eliminate the virus and bacteria that cause the type of infections that aggravate asthma.

Boldocynara, Stinging Nettle , Allergy Relief and Echinaforce are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any serious disease such as asthma.

Deep breathing and relaxation exercises several times a day will bring significant improvement, and in some cases even eliminate asthmatic symptoms. These exercises improve overall stamina; oxygenate the body and reduce the risk of infections.

Since asthma is often caused by environmental allergies, moving to an area with a low allergy index can lessen its severity.