Healthy lifestyle can reduce asthma symptoms

A healthy lifestyle can reduce asthma symptoms, according to a new study.

Many of us want to improve our quality of life, and a healthy lifestyle can help to achieve just that. For those afflicted with breathing difficulties, however, getting the exercise you need can be difficult. But, new research in this field has found that a healthy diet and regular exercise can have substantial benefits to those suffering from asthma.

Scientists based in Italy compared the progression of asthma patients who were assigned, at random, lifestyle-changing schedules and regimes with those that continued to live their lives as normal for a duration of eight weeks.

Once the study was complete, researchers found that those who had taken exercise classes three times a week and had eaten a healthy low-glycaemic index (GI) diet that was rich in protein, fruit and vegetables, rated their asthma symptoms score as 50 percent lower than that of patients in the group who didn’t change their habits.

Those that either altered their diet or exercise level, but not both, still reported a 30 percent improvement in their asthma symptoms.

Asthma and the challenges of exercise

“People with asthma sometimes find exercise challenging and this can lead to an overall deterioration in their fitness,” said Dr Louise Toennesen of Copenhagen’s Bispebjerg University Hospital (via the Daily Express).

“Our study suggests that non-obese asthma patients can safely take part in well-planned, high-intensity exercise.

“It also shows that exercise combined with a healthy diet can help patients control their asthma symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.

“These are important findings since we know that not all patients have good control over their symptoms and consequently can have a lower quality of life.

“We also know that many patients are interested in whether they can improve their asthma control with exercise and a healthy diet.

“Our research suggests that people with asthma should be encouraged to eat a healthy diet and to take part in physical activity.”

This is certainly good news for all those with asthma symptoms, and if you’re now feeling like you want to get out there and pursue a sensible fitness regime to combat your symptoms, make sure you book a rejuvenating Yorkshire spa day to help you recover, and continue to feel your very best.