For patients with asthma, dietary choices can make a big impact on the frequency of ashtmatic attacks and symptoms. For instance, while food doesn’t necessarily spur an asthma attack, food allergies (or intolerances) and asthma often go hand in hand, and symptoms of food allergies can often mimic asthma symptoms. Much research shows that a diet rich in processed foods can often worsen asthmatic symptoms

Whereas a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and lean proteins is often linked to a decrease in asthma symptoms. Here are a few specific proteins foods that may help manage asthma:

1. Foods high in magnesium
According to research from the American Journal of Epidemiology low levels of magnesium are often linked to asthma, particularly in child patients. Yet the same research shows that patients who implemented dark chocolate, salmon, spinach, pumpkin seeds, Swiss chard, and other magnesium-rich foods into their diets showed significant improvement in asthma symptoms.  

2. Sources of vitamin D
Eggs, fortified milk and orange juice, and salmon are all great sources of vitamin D that have been shown to decrease the frequency of asthmatic attacks, and symptoms including shortness of breath or wheezing, coughing and chest tightness. Whole foods are always the best source, sunlight exposure and vitamin D supplements also show promise in reducing asthma symptoms and attacks. 

3. Bananas
While bananas are often the most celebrated potassium rich food, cooked spinach, potatoes, broccoli, oranges, cantaloupe, honeydew, apricots, grapefruit, and raisins are all rich sources of antioxidants and potassium. According to a body of research published by the European Respiratory Journal, potassium and antioxidant rich foods may significantly decrease asthmatic coughing and wheezing, while boosting overall lung function.

4. Boost vitamin A
A 2018 Chinese study conducted by Pediatric doctors at Cangzhou Central Hospital, in Cangzhou, China notes that low levels of vitamin A in the blood of asthmatic children may be linked to asthma. Consuming sources of vitamin A in foods like sweet potatoes, broccoli, kale, cantelope, spinach, and carrots also greatly improved patient lung function.