Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (99 page)

N-Acetyl Cysteine helps to thin out bronchial secretions and sinus mucus.

Hydrochloric acid—particularly if you have digestive symptoms as well. This can aid absorption of nutrients and reduce food intolerances over time. Take meadowsweet daily before meals to increase production of hydrochloric acid.

EXTRA TIPS

Identify environmental allergens and avoid them—most asthmatics will have some idea what triggers their attacks. Pollen, dust, animal hair, chemicals, cigarette smoke, and other triggers should be avoided as much as possible.

To avoid dust mites, vacuum regularly and use anti-allergenic bedding. If you can afford it, get rid of carpets and put in ceramic, stone, or hardwood floors.

Take up singing—singing is great for improving lung capacity and oxygen flow without conscious effort.

Massage the chest with 6 drops of rosemary or eucalyptus oils mixed with 2 teaspoons of almond oil to open up the airways. These oils can also be used in the bath.

Practice yoga, which is great for improving breathing. Find a class where breathing exercises are incorporated into the session.

Swimming in the sea or lakes is good for the lungs, but less so in chlorinated pools.

Avoid nuts with young children. Use nut butters instead.

ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Atherosclerosis occurs when the arteries become filled with fatty cholesterol deposits called plaque. These fatty deposits line the artery walls, causing mild circulation impairment initially, but the plaque can get worse and clog the arteries over time, making them stiff and narrow. Gradually these deposits can cause a total obstruction of the arteries, leading to heart attack or stroke. Smoking is one of the easiest ways to clog your arteries or harden them.

Warning signs may include leg cramping, exhaustion after only a little exertion, dizzy spells, memory problems, headaches, chest pain, tightness known as angina, breathing difficulties, fainting fits, inability to speak, and shortness of breath. Unfortunately, there aren’t always any warning signs.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Smoking.

Diet high in saturated fat.