Using Vitamins and Supplements to Treat Your Asthma

In the U.S. alone, there are over ten million people who suffer from asthma. Many physicians consider asthma to be an epidemic because it so widespread.

Toxic chemicals and pollution in the environment are the primary contributors to the development of this disease. There is an increase in the number of people dying from asthma, mostly because the warning signs are being ignored.

During an asthma attack, the airways in the lungs will begin to swell and develop mucus secretions. They will eventually begin to spasm. It becomes harder to breathe as the airways become narrower. Breathlessness, coughing, wheezing, congestion, a dry mouth, fever and pain are all symptoms that can appear during an asthma attack.

An attack can be caused by almost anything. The most common trigger of an attack are allergies, and other causes include stress, a poor diet, overexertion, or a respiratory infection.

Some attacks are triggered through exposure to irritants such as exhaust fumes, smoke, the smell of gas, or pollen. Attacks can also be caused by foods like chocolate, dairy products, corn and peanuts. They can also be induced when you take antibiotics, tranquilizers or hormone therapy.

There are quite a few vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements that have been used successfully as treatments for asthma. The most important of these is Vitamin B. It can not only reduce the severity of an attack but it will preserve your body's biochemical balance.

Vitamins A and E used together are particularly effective at protecting your lungs from the effects of environmental pollutants. As well, big dosages of Vitamin C are highly successful in combating asthma.

Gingko biloba is also a useful treatment to improve breathing and ease bronchial responses. Another good choice is odorless garlic. The anti-inflammatory properties of this supplement decrease the risk of an asthma attack.

If you suspect that you are suffering from asthma, visit your doctor as soon as possible for a diagnosis. Until then, eat a diet high in protein with lots of vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits. And steer clear of known triggers.

An asthma attack can be a stressful experience, however there are always ways to defend against it and keep it from negatively impacting your life. If your doctor diagnoses you with asthma, ask questions and seek advice on what you ought to be doing.

You can sometimes help to avoid an asthma attack by using natural products like vitamins and nutritional supplements. So there is no reason for it to keep you from the activities you enjoy. It can often be managed successfully although it might slow you down somewhat.