There are many common breathing issues that people suffer from. They are sometimes referred to as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is a group of lung diseases. The most common cause of COPD is smoking. Symptoms are coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. Asthma is a very common lung disease with millions of people suffering from it.

A few asthma symptoms are shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing especially at night, fatigue and wheezing. There are medications available to ease the symptoms of breathing disorders. There are also certain foods that should be avoided by people with breathing issues because they trigger symptoms:

1. Cabbage
This vegetable may be rich in nutrients, but it is also known to cause gas and bloating. Cabbage contains a type of sugar called raffinose, our bodies cannot break this type of sugar down so it ferments in the intestines causing gas. Excess gas and bloating limits lung capacity, which makes it a bad food choice for people with breathing problems.

2. Citrus fruits and drinks
Consumption of citrus fruits and drinks is not a good choice for people with breathing issues. They are too acidic and can cause gas and bloating. Consuming acidic foods may cause symptoms of heartburn which can increase symptoms of breathing disorders. Acidic fruits and drinks that should be avoided are orange and grapefruit juices, tomato sauce, coffee, pineapples, grapes, lemons and limes and pomegranates.

3. Cold cuts
Bacon, lunch meat, hotdogs, sausages and ham contain additives called nitrates. Nitrates are used to protect the color and lengthen the shelf life of meat. Cold cuts are not the healthiest choice of food for anyone to eat, but it’s an even worse choice for people with breathing issues. Studies have shown that nitrates can increase symptoms in people with lung diseases, and increases their risk of being hospitalized with breathing related illnesses.

4. Carbonated beverages
This one is no surprise at all. Carbonated drinks such as soda, sparkling wine and beer can definitely cause bloating. This can put pressure on the lungs making it even harder to breathe, and increases symptoms of breathing conditions. Steering clear of carbonated beverages and drinking water always works best.

5. Dairy products
Dairy products such as milk are known to be very healthy and filled with nutrients, but for individuals with breathing disorders it should be avoided. Milk contains something called casomorphin. Casomorphin increases the mucus in the intestines. People suffering from lung diseases sometimes experience a buildup of mucus. The added mucus increase from milk would make it even worse and is a trigger that should be avoided.

6. Salty foods
Too much salt isn’t good for anyone. Salt can cause water retention and too much water in the body can cause breathing problems or make symptoms even worse. It’s best to forget about salt, and use healthy herbs and spices to season food.