Asthma-Friendly Feasts: Delicious Meals for Easier Breathing

Broccoli Sprouts

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable containing a compound known as sulforaphane. According to research conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, sulforaphane provides a broad range of antioxidant enzymes effective in blocking harmful air pollution, which may help reduce asthma symptoms. The researchers stated "We found a two-to-three-fold increase in antioxidant enzymes in the nasal airway cells of study participants who had eaten a preparation of broccoli sprouts. This strategy may offer protection against inflammatory processes and could lead to potential treatments for a variety of respiratory conditions."

Garlic And Onions

Foods belonging to the garlic family such as onions, shallots, and chives have natural antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that may be able to fight off infections and boost the immune system. Garlic also contains an anti-inflammatory compound known as quercetin to reduce the severity of asthma attacks. Chopped fresh or cooked garlic and onions can be added to just about any dish, including whole wheat pasta, chicken and vegetable stir-fries, cheesy vegetable bakes, and homemade soups.