Today, we dedicated our attention to raising awareness about asthma in commemoration of World Asthma Day, observed yesterday, May 7th, on Capitalk 100.4fm with Folake. It’s crucial to understand that asthma, a chronic lung disease, can be managed and prevented.
Lifestyle modifications are the initial step, particularly personal hygiene, avoiding dust and fake perfumes, and awareness of individual triggers for asthmatic attacks. Some people may experience inflammation due to certain flowers 🌺 pollinating, foods especially sugar and processed foods, or inhaling cold air. It has to be a personal journey of self-awareness and awareness of one’s body and triggers.
Allergic reactions and irritants can also trigger attacks, which I personally experience when exposed to specific trees or smells, leading to intense sneezing that can last 2-5 hours.
Nutrition and exercise play a vital role as well. Consuming omega-3 fats, essential fatty acids found in fish, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats, is important for nutrition. These fatty acids are anti-inflammatory, which is crucial since inflammation is a common aspect of asthmatic attacks, causing airway swelling and redness.
Antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, berries, and magnesium-rich foods like dark leafy greens, citrus fruits, broccoli, turmeric, ginger, onions, and garlic are also essential. The key takeaway is that our immune system relies on a balance of factors, making Whole Foods the primary choice. Vitamin D, obtained through sunlight and vitamin D-rich foods, is vital, and deficiencies in these macronutrients and micronutrients can impair our ability to combat respiratory infections.
Nutrition is the body’s fuel for energy and healing, and omega-3 fats, vitamin D, and C can be found in pharmacies. Iron can be obtained through metal objects like steel containers or food supplements. Exercise, after consulting healthcare providers, is a significant component in managing asthma, promoting cardiovascular health, and benefiting from strength training. While there are no guarantees in life, we can take steps to navigate challenges and thrive.
Proper hydration, drinking approximately 4-5 liters of water, maintains fluid balance, transports nutrients and immune cells, removes pathogens and waste products, and preserves mucous membrane barriers. Having personally struggled with chronic illnesses, I can attest that exercise and healthy eating can manage these issues, improving sleep and mental health, and reducing the risk of asthma by maintaining physical activity.
Love yourself enough to live a healthy lifestyle – you matter!
