People who experience asthma experience narrowed airways that become swollen and produce excessive mucus. Asthma makes breathing difficult and causes shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. It can be a minor irritation for some patients, but for others, asthma can be a life-threatening condition. Although asthma has no cure, it can be safely controlled with doctor-prescribed medications and a diet composed of foods that help prevent and manage symptoms.

Read on for some asthma-friendly foods for asthma patients:

1. Hard boiled eggs
According to a Mayo Clinic asthma specialist, consuming eggs can improve the symptoms of asthma because it provides Vitamin D. People who have a low level of Vitamin D are more likely to suffer more serious asthma symptoms. On the other hand, people with high or normal levels of Vitamin D are less likely to suffer from asthma symptoms.

2. Leafy green salads
We all know the power of leafy greens – they are packed with vitamins and minerals. They also contain folate, which is a B vitamin. A 2016 study by Annals of the American Thoracic Society found that children who were deficient in folate and Vitamin D were approximately eight times more likely to experience one or more severe asthma attacks compared to children who were well-nourished. There are many ways to eat leafy greens. Making a salad is a great way to enjoy them raw and get the most nutrients out of them.

3. Nuts
Nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, walnuts, peanuts, and raw seeds are full of Vitamin E, which is known to reduce inflammation of the airways that help prevent asthma attacks. Vitamin E also reduces mucus in the lungs and relieves the discomfort an asthmatic person may experience. Along with improving asthmatic symptoms, nuts are also great for boosting the immune system and are an excellent source of healthy fats.

4. Avocados
Avocados have been called a “superfood” and for good reasons. They are full of an antioxidant called glutathione, which detoxifies the body of toxins that are harmful to the respiratory system. Avocados have monounsaturated fat, which is the beneficial fat your body needs to stay healthy, these are called omega-three fats. These fats have an anti-inflammatory effect that helps relieve bronchial inflammation, which is a common symptom of asthma.

5. Baby carrots
Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, known as a powerful antioxidant. This is converted to Vitamin A, which reduces the likelihood of exercise-induced asthma. Beta-carotene is also present in other bright-colored foods such as sweet potatoes, apricots, and peppers. This pigment is also useful for maintaining good eye health, a strong immune system, and may help prevent cancer and heart disease.

Asthma is a condition that can be controlled safely to allow patients to live a normal life. The right nutrients will help an asthmatic individual breathe easier while reducing symptoms. Each individual is different, so preferences and allergies have to be considered. It is key to consult a doctor and nutritionist before making major changes to one’s diet. Asthma doesn’t have to get in the way of life, trying these helpful foods will aid in improving lung function and reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.