During shortness of breath, it becomes difficult to inhale the oxygen your body needs. Some common breathing problems include asthma, COPD, and allergies. Asthma is caused by airways inflammation, leading to shortness of breath and wheezing. Pollutants, infections, and allergic reactions trigger an asthma attack. COPD is an umbrella term for several respiratory diseases related to breathlessness. 

Below are the five worst foods for your lungs to avoid if you suffer from breathing problems:

1. Carbonated beverages
Drinking fizzy drinks such as soda, sparkling wine, and alcohol increase the risk of respiratory illnesses such as allergies and asthma symptoms. People with respiratory problems require more energy to breathe. Carbonated drinks make breathing difficult due to the extra gas that creeps into the lungs. Carbonated beverages cause bloating that further put pressure on the lungs leading to breathing difficulties. Instead of soda, hydrate with water

2. Dairy products
While milk is rich in calcium, dairy products can trigger respiratory illnesses for those who have asthma. Casomorphin is a breakdown product of dairy products that increase mucus in the intestines. During flare-ups, those with respiratory diseases experience an increase in mucus.The mucus gradually build up in the lungs making breathing difficult. Allergy to dairy products can trigger asthma symptoms. If lactose intolerant and suffering from a respiratory illness, go for dairy alternatives such as almond milk in the place of cow milk to prevent a potential flare-up.

3. Excessive salt
While a pinch of salt in your food may be fine, cuisines with high salt levels can increase breathing problems. Salt makes your body retain water, and excess water makes it difficult to breathe if you have existing respiratory problems.Substitute salt with mild herbs to enhance the flavor of your food. It is important to read food labels carefully and choose those with less than 300 milligrams of sodium.

4. Fried foods
Fried foods cause discomfort and bloating that exerts extra pressure on your diaphragm, leading to breathing difficulty. Over time, excessive consumption of fried food causes weight gain, increasing pressure on the lungs. Next time you crave fried chicken, resist the temptation and go for a healthy alternative.

5. Acidic foods and drinks
Foods and drinks such as spicy foods, citrus juice, coffee, and tomato sauce have high acidity that increases the likelihood of heartburn and acid reflux. Shortness of breath is a frightening symptom of acid reflux. Difficulty breathing, also known as dyspnea, is linked to GERD.When sleeping, stomach acid can slip to the esophagus, penetrate the lungs, leading to swelling of the airways. Inflammation in the airways causes an asthmatic reaction. Avoid preventable flare-ups by eliminating such worst foods for your lungs from your diet.

It is crucial to observe your diet if you have respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies. Treatment alongside a change in dietary lifestyle can improve your well-being. Take charge of your respiratory health today through a diet, free from acidic products, carbonated beverages, dairy products, excessive salt, and fried foods. Switch to healthy snacks for better nutrition, controlled cravings, and better breathing.