Asthma is the body’s reaction to inhaling certain substances that cause a narrowing of the airways, inflammation of the tissue that lines these channels, and persistent symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. While there isn’t much research on how diet affects asthma, controlling asthma requires also controlling triggers like food allergies and other environmental factors. For example, eating certain foods increases inflammation, worsening asthma. Here are the 5 worst foods for asthma:

1. Eggs

Eggs have been linked to asthma flare-ups because they contain a protein called ovalbumin, which can trigger an allergic reaction. This is particularly common in children with both asthma and food allergies. In general, people aren’t born with food allergies, but develop them over time because of repeated exposure to the food and a continued improper immune response. In such cases, eggs are often one of the first foods for which a young child can develop an allergy. Food allergies may also crop up in adults who were previously free from them.

2. Cow’s milk

Cow’s milk contains beta-lactoglobulin, a protein that can trigger the immune system to produce antibodies against it. The body then generates IgE (immunoglobulin E) to attack when it comes into contact with milk proteins, leading to anaphylactic shock and asthma attacks. About 25 percent of children are allergic to cow’s milk. This figure increases with the severity of asthma.

3. Shellfish

While some people are naturally allergic to shellfish, others may develop an allergy from repeated exposure. Regardless, shellfish can trigger asthma in both types of sufferers because it contains tropomyosin, a protein similar to ovalbumin that triggers the same allergic reaction; the body attacks it as if it were a foreign antigen. 

4. Peanuts and tree nuts

Peanuts and tree nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, and cashews, are also linked with asthma because they contain the protein a-tryptase. The body produces antibodies in response to this protein and then attacks any subsequent exposure, leading to an allergic reaction and potentially triggering an asthma flare-up. 

5. Gluten

Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. People with celiac disease or a gluten allergy have an adverse reaction to gluten exposure. In those with a gluten allergy, the body attacks the protein as a foreign antigen. When the body overreacts to an allergen, the immune system is overactive and releases histamine when triggered, which can trigger an asthma attack in turn. 

Asthma sufferers should talk to their doctor about possible food allergies before making any dietary changes. What works best may vary from person to person. In addition to dietary changes, certain medicines to manage asthma attacks include albuterol, the most common asthma medication, and corticosteroids. These are usually effective forms of treatment and prevention in mild cases.