There are several issues related to breathing caused by cold, dust, smoke, viral infections, perfumes or some foods and drinks. Asthma, allergies, and COPD are among the respiratory disorders that cause the airways to narrow, therefore making it hard to breathe. Among the many causes of breathing disorders is the consumption of trigger foods and drinks, which patients suffering from these conditions should avoid:

1. Acidic food and drinks
Examples of these are citrus, garlic, alcohol, chocolate, coffee, and spiced foods. These foods increase symptoms of lung disease. Some of these foods cause allergies such as the anaphylaxis. Signs and symptoms that could indicate one is suffering from this condition are weak pulses, repetitive cough and shortness of breath, among others. Acid does not only affect the stomach. If the stomach acid gets into the oesophagus due to opening of the valve that closes it, patients of COPD suffer due to the hurt burn they experience. A drink like coffee contains caffeine which, when taken in large amounts, may cause an irregular heartbeat. These acidic foods and drinks increase acid reflux, a condition that causes heartburn.

2. Carbonated beverages
These drinks include beer, wine, flavored mineral water and soda. These drinks contain sugar, carbonation and empty calories, and they cause an increase in bloating and dehydration. The higher the consumption of soft drinks, the greater the risk of getting exposed to respiratory diseases. The most likely are asthma and COPD. The sugar contained in these drinks may cause obesity which in return puts one in a more likely position to contact respiratory disorders. High intake of soda in the body may cause a stroke or heart diseases.

3. Dairy products
Animal dairy products can worsen the symptoms of lung disease. Calcium contained in milk has casomorphin, which increases mucus in cells of respiratory organs, the lungs. Milk and dairy products worsen the symptoms of asthma and may lead to allergies and the thickening of saliva. A typical product is cow milk. The proteins found in it are the causes of allergies. These proteins are whey and casein found in the liquid and substantial part of the milk, respectively. It is important to note that dairy products will only make the symptoms of asthma worse in case the patient has an allergy triggered by the products.

4. Excessive salt
Salt retains water, and excess water causes breathing problems. It is important to limit salt usage or consider its substitute. Excessive salt usage triggers asthma and wheezing. Consistency in eating diets with too much salt decreases the functioning of lungs and is highly associated with issues on asthma. A test on sputum from lungs showed that the concentration of substances contributing to inflammatory response for people consuming high salt diets was double the concentration of those of low salt diet consumers. Salt activates the enzymes that trigger immune cells formation and also activation. These are the cells that trigger respiratory disorders. It is essential to lower the intake of salt into our bodies.