Allergies, asthma, and eosinophilic esophagitis are inflammatory conditions that can cause symptoms of chest tightness, shortness of breath, inflamed airways, inflamed esophagus, or excess mucus production, along with perhaps frequent infections. While there are many reasons for these conditions, the symptoms may be exacerbated by certain environmental conditions (i.e., dry or cold air) as well as the foods we eat. Here are common foods that can trigger breathing issues:

1. Milk
Dairy products such as milk can worsen the symptoms. Milk is very nutritious and contains essential nutrients such as calcium. At the same time, it can be dangerous to those with breathing problems as it contains casomorphin. This is a product from the milk breakdown that is known for increasing mucus in the intestines. Scientists say that casomorphin stimulates mucus production in the respiratory systems hence causing breathing problems.

2. Cabbage
Gases and bloating make one uncomfortable. This may be even tougher for those with breathing problems. These cruciferous vegetables like cabbage give you extra gas. Hence if you have any lung disease, you should try as much as possible to limit them to avoid triggering the symptoms.

3. Corn
Study shows that exposure to corn or its products may trigger the symptoms of asthma. The reactions will vary in different people. To some people, the effects may be severe and life-threatening. The symptoms mostly appear within a range of 2minutes to 2hours. These symptoms may include rapid and irregular pulse, difficulties in breathing, swelling of the throat, and air passages. You should seek medical advice as soon as possible if you experience any of these symptoms.

4. Excess salt or sugars
Just as a small pinch of salt in your meals is enough. The excessive use of salt may cause you many problems, especially if you have any breathing conditions. Salts make you retain excess water in the body, which is very dangerous as it will trigger the symptoms, causing you to have breathing problems. You can avoid salt by using its substitutes such as herbs and spices to flavor your food. Sugars make it difficult for the body to digest food. If you have any lung disease, it might be dangerous as it will cause a condition called anaphylaxis. This will, therefore, trigger symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing.

5. Preservatives and additives
One of the major effects of preservatives is that they may cause trigger breathing problems. Eliminating foods with preservatives can be essential to minimize the severity of breathing conditions like asthma. These preservatives such as sulfites, benzoates can accelerate the breathing problems in asthmatic people. Others are also the main cause of shortness of breath and other breathing difficulties.

Anyone who has a breathing condition or any lung disease should be cautious of what they consume.