Most asthma patients require doctor-prescribed medications (i.e., inhaled corticosteroids) in order to control and manage symptoms of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. However, many health care professionals also recommend making certain dietary changes to avoid triggering an asthma attack. If you suffer from asthma, then it may be wise to avoid the following foods:

1. Cow’s milk
Studies show that cow’s milk is often linked to asthma. While drinking milk does not cause asthma, this common allergen can worsen the symptoms of asthma if the patient also suffers from a milk food allergy (casein allergy) or milk sensitivity. Studies show that people who have food allergies are four times as likely to develop asthma. If you are sensitive to cow’s milk, it may cause the immune system to go into overdrive. That is why you may notice worsening asthma symptoms as well as itchy hives when you drink cow’s milk.

2. Eggs
Eggs probably won’t bother you unless you have an egg allergy or sensitivity. However, if you are sensitive to eggs, then you will need to make sure that you avoid them. You are more likely to have an asthma attack if you eat eggs, and you have an existing egg sensitivity.

3. Wheat
Wheat contains gluten, a common trigger that creates an immune system response, causing the body to create additional antibodies, which can end in an asthma attack. Wheat also contains globulin amino acids, which can also trigger an asthma attack.

4. Nuts
Even though nuts are often recommended as a part of a healthy diet, they may not be a good choice for you if you suffer from asthma. Nuts are a common allergy and food sensitivity. You may develop coughing, wheezing and breathing problems if you are even mildly allergic to nuts.

5. Shellfish
Shellfish is another common food allergy that can trigger asthma-like symptoms. Crab, shrimp, lobster, clams, mussels and scallops are some examples of shellfish. Certain types of shellfish contain sulfites. Studies indicate that sulfites can trigger asthma symptoms as many people are sensitive to sulfites.

6. Soy
Soy is often used in vegetarian and vegan meat substitutes. However, it is not a good food for you to eat if you suffer from asthma. Tofu and soybean oil are common triggers that you will need to avoid if you suffer from asthma.

7. Preservatives and additives
Preservatives and additives are often added to shelved, canned, and frozen foods to increase the amount of time the food will last. However, they can also trigger asthma attacks. It can be difficult to find out what preservatives and additives you are allergic to because they are many in processed foods. However, if you develop unpleasant symptoms after eating certain foods, then keep a food journal to remind yourself if they trigger your asthma symptoms.