#Health Info: 7 Foods to Avoid if You Have Asthma

One dietary trigger that is well documented in relation to asthma attacks is sulfites. While sulfite sensitivity is generally limited to asthmatics who are steroid-dependant, this food additive can trigger attacks in 20 percent of people with asthma. Sulfites occur in foods as a result of fermentation and are found in processed foods.

Artificial lemon or lime juice

You'd be much better off using real lemon or lime juice. It might take a little extra work, but not only will it taste fresher, you'll be able to breathe better too.

Beer, wine, hard cider, juice and tea

Ever wondered why you had trouble breathing after drinking beer, wine or hard cider? Now you do! Sulfites are to blame.

Dried fruits or vegetables

Besides typical dried fruits, such as raisins, pineapple, apricots and cranberries, these foods also include  things like maraschino cherries and pre-packaged guacomole.

Pickled food 

Pickles, peppers and relish, oh my! Avoid anything pickled if you have a reaction to sulfites. Let the jar with murky liquid be the warning sign to stay away.

Packaged potatoes

Things like frozen hash browns and french fries and dehydrated potatoes have sulfites, so beware. A healthier substitute would be a baked sweet potato or roasted potatoes with a touch of olive oil

Frozen Shrimp

Frozen shrimp is another sulfite culprit. It is used to as a food additive to prevent black spots from developing on the shrimp. A better bet is to get fresh shrimp, which can be more expensive, but will keep you feeling better in the long run.

Natural Occuring Sulfites

Other foods with sulfites include asparagus, chives, corn starch, eggs, garlic, leeks, lettuce, maple syrup, salmon, soy products and tomatoes.