Breathing Hazards: 15 Foods That Can Trigger Respiratory Issues

Do you ever feel like certain foods make it harder for you to breathe? You might not be imagining it. There are certain foods that, for some people, can trigger respiratory issues such as asthma or shortness of breath. If you’re looking to improve your breathing, it’s important to be aware of these potential triggers. Read on to discover 15 foods that are likely to cause breathing problems for some individuals.

High-sodium snacks like chips, pretzels, and salted nuts can contribute to bloating and water retention, which may lead to breathing difficulties, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The high salt content in these snacks can also lead to inflammation in the airways, making breathing more difficult.

While not everyone experiences respiratory issues after consuming dairy, many people with asthma or other breathing problems find that dairy products such as milk, cheese, and ice cream can worsen their symptoms. This is because dairy can lead to the production of excess mucus in the respiratory system, making it harder to breathe.

Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats often contain preservatives and additives that can cause inflammation in the airways. This can make it difficult for some individuals to breathe, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

Shellfish such as shrimp, crab, and lobster are common allergens that can trigger asthma and other breathing problems in susceptible individuals. It’s important for those with shellfish allergies to be cautious when consuming these foods, as they can lead to serious respiratory issues.

Eggs are another common allergen that can cause respiratory distress in some people. Additionally, the sulfites used as preservatives in some egg products can also trigger asthma symptoms in certain individuals.

Some people find that soy products like tofu and soy milk can exacerbate their asthma or breathing difficulties. This is believed to be due to the presence of natural compounds in soy that can cause inflammation in the airways.

Peanuts are one of the most common food allergens, and for those with peanut allergies, exposure to peanuts can result in severe respiratory reactions, including anaphylaxis.

The capsaicin found in spicy foods like chili peppers and hot sauces can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing and shortness of breath in some individuals.

Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons are acidic, which can trigger acid reflux in some people. Acid reflux can cause irritation and inflammation in the airways, making it harder to breathe.

For individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten-containing foods can lead to inflammation in the body, including in the respiratory system, which can result in breathing difficulties.

Tomatoes are high in histamines, compounds that can cause inflammation and constriction of the airways for some individuals, particularly those with asthma or allergies.

Avocado is a healthy food for many people, but some individuals may experience allergic reactions to avocado that manifest as respiratory issues such as wheezing or difficulty breathing.

Alcohol can act as a respiratory depressant, slowing down breathing and potentially causing breathing difficulties, particularly in excess.

Canned soups and broths often contain high levels of sodium and preservatives, which can lead to inflammation in the airways and exacerbate breathing problems in some individuals.

Foods high in sulfur compounds, such as onions, garlic, and cruciferous vegetables, can produce sulfur dioxide gas when digested, which can irritate the respiratory system and trigger breathing difficulties in some people.