Asthma is a condition in which the airways in the lungs become narrower due to inflammation. It is one of the most common chronic diseases that affect both children and adults equally. In fact, as many as 1 in 13 people in our country are diagnosed with it. But, just taking medications may not help the condition fully; dietary changes are also essential. To help manage asthma better, here are some foods that you can include in your daily diet. Flaxseeds These seeds are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They not only help in reducing blood pressure but also in reducing inflammation of the airways, enabling the person to breathe better. To reap maximum benefits from the nutrients present in the flaxseeds, grind them in a coffee grinder and add one or two teaspoons in cereals and smoothies, and even salads. Carrots Carrots are known for containing a rich source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that is converted into vitamin A by the body. It has been observed that vitamin A can help in reducing the symptoms of exercise-induced asthma. It also helps in keeping the eyes and immune system healthy, thereby protecting the body from possibly fatal health conditions like heart disease and cancer.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD causes an obstruction of airflow from the lungs. It is one of the leading causes of mortality in our country. Prolonged exposure to particulate matter or certain gases, and smoking can increase the risk of COPD. Food also plays a key role in the severity of the disease, making it vital to avoid foods that aggravate the symptoms. The following are some of the most common food triggers for COPD. Excess salt This is one of the top food triggers for COPD. Iodized salt is essential for maintaining a healthy blood pressure. However, excessive salt can cause water retention. This results in a health condition called edema. The excess water can get accumulated in the diaphragm and damage the lungs, thereby increasing the risk of suffering from COPD. Doctors and dieticians suggest replacing table salt with other spices and herbs to enhance the taste. Aerated drinks Aerated drinks contain high amounts of carbon dioxide. They also contain sweeteners, preservatives, and added colors that can increase the risk of suffering from COPD. The carbon dioxide in the aerated drinks can disturb the diaphragm pressure, which can make it difficult for the patient to breathe. It is therefore recommended to avoid aerated drinks and stay hydrated by drinking water and freshly squeezed juice.

We are aware of how an excess of anything can cause a problem for us. Cholesterol is essential for the proper functioning of our system, but like everything else, excessive deposition of cholesterol causes problems for the heart in the long run. However, sticking to a healthy diet that includes cholesterol-lowering foods can rid the heart of “bad” cholesterol. Here’s a list of foods that help reduce LDL levels and maintain a healthy level of HDL. Nuts and seeds Nuts and seeds are a great source of monounsaturated fatty acids. These are referred to as “good” fats for the heart. These are high in calories and are functional as cholesterol-lowering foods as they clear our blood of unwanted and unhealthy fats. Munching on a handful of nuts in between meals or adding some chopped nuts and seeds to your bowl of salad can work wonders for your health. Dark chocolate Being told that you can no longer relish the deliciousness that is chocolates is possibly one of the hardest things to come to terms with. However, rest assured that we aren’t here to ask you to give up your favorite bar of chocolate. No, we are here to tell you that the bar is, in fact, good for you.

Osteoarthritis is a fairly common joint condition primarily affecting old people. The cartilage found at the end of two connected bones wears down in osteoarthritis, causing the bones to rub against each other. This leads to significant joint pain, mostly in the knees, hips, and hands. Old age is seen as the biggest risk factor for this ailment, with genetics, obesity, and joint injuries also increasing its likelihood. Treatment consists of various medications and therapies geared toward pain reduction. Dietary changes and certain natural remedies are also advised as they produce a similar effect and help combat osteoarthritis. In this article, we’ll be looking at a few of these remedies in detail. Ginger Incorporating ginger in every meal or just eating it orally can prove useful for osteoarthritis patients. Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects which help reduce muscle pain and soreness. Studies have gone on to further prove that ginger, along with mastic, cinnamon and sesame oil can combat stiffness and osteoarthritis-related joint pain. The spice also helps address nausea and morning sickness. Green Tea Bioactive compounds such as polyphenols found in green tea reduce inflammations, prevent cellular damage, and help shield the cartilage from decay. The beverage also boosts the metabolic rate in the body, helping reduce fat which in turn leads to weight loss.

A common irritable bowel disease, ulcerative colitis (UC) requires one to pay close attention to their diet. It causes periodic flare-ups that cause pain and discomfort to the digestive system. Its symptoms include abdominal pain, fatigue, bloody diarrhea, rectal pain, and fever that often disrupt one’s daily routine. Although treatment options include medication and surgery, eating certain foods and eliminating others can also help in preventing symptom flare-ups. Here are a few dietary tips for those with ulcerative colitis: Adopt a low-fiber diet A high-fiber diet is often healthy for those with IBS. Foods rich in fiber usually help in controlling symptom flare-ups. However, for those with ulcerative colitis, fiber-based foods can be quite tricky. A high amount of fiber intake can fast-forward bowel movements, triggering UC symptoms. However, cutting off fiber completely is not recommended since fiber-rich foods provide dietary carbs. Oatmeal is a safe option in such a case. Make sure to limit the intake of insoluble fiber-based foods such as raw green and cruciferous veggies, whole nuts, and fruits with seeds and skin, which are quite hard to digest. Eat fruits that are rich in antioxidants While fruits are great for your overall health, those with ulcerative colitis need to be cautious with the fruits they pick.