Asthma Day 2025: 6 foods that can trigger asthma; What do the doctor eat instead

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition marked by wheezing, cough and shortness of breath. While the summer season and spring can trigger symptoms of asthma, sometimes can cause us food. In an interview with HT lifestyle, Dr. Indra Mohan Chugh, Senior Director, Fulflements, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh shared how some foods can trigger asthma. Also read 8 common asthma trigger: Doctors share tips to avoid them

1. Cool item

Extreme cold foods such as raw ice, ice cream and nitro puff can disturb the airways lining and trigger asthma symptoms. Nitro puff, in particular, can be harmful because it contains liquid nitrogen that can damage the food pipe and respiratory tract.

2. Street food

Objects such as chaat, gol gappa and tamarind chutney are often exposed to dust and pollutants, making them risky for asthma patients. Additionally, these foods can contain strong spices that can increase symptoms.

3. Chinese food

Many Chinese recipes have some artificial additives, and are spicy sauces that can act as an allergy or irritability, which expands the symptoms of asthma.

4. Pack and processed foods

Items, including chips, frozen food, and boxing juices, etc., often have preservatives, which can spoil the symptoms of asthma.

5. Dry fruits and pickle foods

They can provoke allergic reactions or respiratory symptoms in people suffering from asthma. Also read Management of seasonal allergies: Doctor shares the last guide for asthma patients

6. Aspirin, coffee and specific allergies

Some individuals may give adverse reactions to drugs such as caffeine or aspirin. Additionally, any known food allergy (eg, peanuts, or dairy) should be avoided strictly.

What to eat instead?

Dr. Indra Mohan Chug shared a list of foods, which we should consume to reduce the symptoms of asthma.

• Fresh fruits and vegetables: Antioxidants and rich in vitamins A and C, they help reduce inflammation and support lung health.
• Vitamin D Source: Foods such as eggs, milk and sunlight contact help strengthen the immune system, which can reduce the symptoms of asthma. Also read Can asthma disappear and recur? Doctors explain why this happens
• Vitamin e-rich foods: Nuts, seeds and broccoli provide vitamin E, which supports respiratory function and reduces oxidative stress.
• Homemade fresh food: Cook at home with light spices, they reduce the risk of exposure to asthma trigger.
• Room temperature food: Eating or drinking items at room temperature help prevent the tightening of airways that are often from cold foods.

Note the readers: This article is only for informative purposes and is not an option for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor with any question about a medical condition.