Asthma in Children

Asthma is caused by a variety of factors such as weather conditions, dust, pollen, animal hair and certain foods.

Foods that may cause asthma are wheat, eggs, milk, chocolates, beans, potatoes and fish. A child with low immunity levels along with a poor or faulty diet is likely to contract asthma.

A vegetarian diet is best for an asthmatic child. It should contain limited quantity of carbohydrates, fats and protein which are acid forming. Throw in a generous amount of fruits, green vegetables and sprouted seeds into your child's diet.

Diet Suggestions

• Breakfast: Seven almonds soaked overnight in water with honey mixed in warm water, fresh fruits, dates or figs (soaked), wholewheat bread toast and one cup of soya milk with honey.

• Mid-morning: Grape/apple juice.

• Lunch: Lots of lightly cooked vegetables with wholewheat chapattis.

• Evening: Steamed sprouts and wholewheat toast with tofu and ginger tea with honey.

• Dinner: One big bowl of hot soup with lots of shredded vegetables or one big bowl of salad.

Points to remember

• Avoid feeding the child with foods that may form phlegm e.g. rice, sugar, lentils, curds, fried foods and snacks.

• Avoid fizzy drinks, pickles, sauces and refined foods.

• Substitute milk with soya milk and tofu.

• During the day, give your child eight to 10 glasses of warm water.

• Sometimes, asthma is caused by a vitamin B6 deficiency. A supplement of B6 may be helpful.

• Do not expose the child to sudden fluctuations of temperature and climactic extremes.

• Besides a planned diet, teach your child some deep breathing exercises to expand lung-power.

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