Foods To Avoid With Asthma Foods rarely trigger an asthma attack. But the symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to some foods can mimic asthma symptoms. The first step is to know if you have a food allergy. Any abnormal reaction to a food is considered an adverse reaction. Adverse reactions can either be: Food allergy: When your immune system reacts to proteins in foods that usually are safe or harmless. Your doctor can do skin tests to find out if you’re sensitive to certain foods.

When your immune system reacts to proteins in foods that usually are safe or harmless. Your doctor can do skin tests to find out if you’re sensitive to certain foods. Food intolerance: When your body responds to the food, not your immune system. Examples include food poisoning, reactions to chemicals in food or drinks such as caffeine, or reflux. The most common foods associated with allergic symptoms are: Eggs

Cow's milk

Peanuts

Soy

Wheat

Fish

Shrimp and other shellfish

Tree nuts

Food Preservatives and Asthma Food preservatives can also trigger an asthma attack. Additives, such as sodium bisulfite, potassium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, potassium metabisulfite, and sodium sulfite, are commonly used in food processing or preparation and can be found in foods such as: Dried fruits or vegetables

Potatoes (packaged and some prepared)

Wine and beer

Bottled lime or lemon juice

Shrimp (fresh, frozen, or prepared)

Pickled foods

Symptoms of Food Allergies and Asthma For most people, the usual symptoms of food allergies are hives, rash, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you have food allergies that trigger symptoms of an asthma attack, you will likely have these allergy symptoms, followed by coughing and wheezing. And if not caught quickly, anaphylaxis -- swelling of the throat, cutting off your airway -- may result. If you suspect certain foods are asthma triggers for you, talk to your doctor. She can give you allergy skin tests to find out if you’re allergic to these foods.