Asthma can be a terrifying condition for the millions of Americans who suffer from it, often debilitating. More women than men are affected by asthma, approximately 70% more, and it is possible that asthma may even be related to hormonal fluctuations in menstruating females.
Risk Factors For Developing Asthma
Along with hormones, there are a number of risk factors for developing asthma, including obesity, respiratory infections, certain drugs, allergies, and even sharp intakes of cold air. This can cause mild asthma attacks in people who have never had any symptoms of asthma in the past. Smoking is a huge no-no for anyone, especially asthmatics, because it is extremely likely to trigger asthma attacks. Asthmatics should also try to avoid cat dander, household dust, molds, pollen, and scented products.
Most people have experienced a form of asthma attack at one time or another, but for most people, these are minor, and extremely infrequent. Chronic asthma sufferers can have several attacks daily, and often find it difficult to live their day-to-day lives.
Treat Asthma With "The Pill"
Many women take birth control pills for reasons other birth control, including weight and acne control. Well, because asthma affects the menstrual cycle, and inflames the airways, taking an oral contraceptive is often recommended for female asthma patients as well. In the past, it was thought to be just the opposite, but studies in recent years have proven that oral contraceptives are an effective method of treating asthma-related symptoms.
Exercising With Asthma
People who suffer with asthma symptoms, like anyone else, can greatly benefit from an exercise program. Of course, they should always consult with their physicians before beginning any diet or exercise program, to make sure that they are doing everything they need to obtain the benefits they are seeking. In addition to consulting with a physician, there are some specific guidelines when it comes to exercising with asthma:
- Make sure you use a bronchodilator before exercising.
- Work out indoors, where the air is warmer and more humid.
- Yoga is an extremely beneficial exercise, and not just for asthmatics.
The Right Diet Can Help Too
Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is not only good for your overall health, but it can also play a role in asthma treatment. There are three macronutrients that every human being needs in their diets in order to survive: carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Plus, there are a number of vitamins and minerals that we also need to have in our diets.
Because weight can be an asthma trigger, a healthy diet is of the utmost importance for asthmatics. Many asthma medications can actually cause an increase in appetite, as well as fluid retention, so an asthmatic's diet should counteract these effects. Preservatives, such as sulfites, are particularly dangerous, and foods like imported beer, shellfish, potatoes, and guacamole should be avoided. Asthma patients who are taking oral steroid drugs need to watch their salt intake as well. Calcium is necessary, especially for children.
Proteins: Proteins are necessary, and can be found in animal and some plant sources, especially soy. Not only is protein needed for building and maintaining strong, healthy muscles, it is also a dietary source of energy, and a natural appetite suppressant. Asthma sufferers looking for additional protein in their diets should opt for such food sources as oily fish (mackerel, salmon and swordfish are all good examples) and soy. Protein supplements should also be used.
Carbohydrates: Even though there are many diet plans that restrict carbohydrate intake, we do need carbohydrates in our diets. In fact, the bulk of our diets should come from carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, such as white flour and sugar, should be restricted, and even avoided, as they can lead to weight gain.
Fats: About 15 to 20% of our diets should come from healthy fats. Saturated fats, which are fats that are still solid at room temperature, are the ones to avoid, as well as hydrogenated vegetable oil, which is a saturated fat.
Protein Supplements
There are a number of terrific protein supplements available on the market today that are convenient, healthy and delicious. In addition to capsules, there are also many popular liquid proteins, including protein-packed protein shots, and protein powders. Some of the more popular forms of protein for supplements include:
Whey Protein - Whey, as mentioned above, is a derivative of milk, a bi-product of the cheese-making process. It is a protein that is quickly and easily digested, making it a great option for body builders and other athletes who are looking for muscle recovery following workouts, or to build muscles.
Soy Protein - Soy protein is a wonderful option for vegetarians, and people who are intolerant to milk and milk products, such as cheese and yogurt. Soy protein comes directly from soybeans, so it is vegetable-based. It isn't the greatest tasting protein, but you can get plenty of soy supplement products that are flavored and taste really great.
Egg Protein - This is highly recognized as a protein for body builders. In fact, before there were nutritional supplements, it was not uncommon to see weight lifters drinking raw eggs for a protein boost. Now, there are a number of egg protein powders available that taste great in shakes.
Rice Protein - This protein comes from brown rice, and is considered to be a complete protein. Rice protein contains all of the essential amino acids, as well as nonessential amino acids, and since it is hypoallergenic, it is great for everyone.
Liquid Protein
Muscles need protein to grow and stay strong and healthy, and sometimes, we need extra protein. Liquid protein supplements are made for people looking for muscle recovery following workouts or exercise, those who are trying to build their muscles, and anyone else who needs additional protein in their diet. They are also used as meal replacements for many diets, and for busy people who are always on the go.
Liquid whey protein shakes are easily and quickly digested, and their effects are almost immediate. They are ideal for those don't eat a lot of meat. You can get liquid protein shakes that are low or without fat and carbohydrates, which are ideal for dieters who are just looking for additional protein. Because many of these are milk-based, people who are lactose intolerant should read the ingredients carefully before buying any liquid protein supplement.
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