Did the doctor give any hints as to how he's going
to fix the breathing problems? Justin the Asthmatic
is interested in hearing about it.
I'm reading and hearing more about the role of diet
in asthma. Latest theory is that excessive carbohydrates
(especially the "bad" ones -- sugar, refined grain products,
and starchy vegetables like rice and potatoes) can cause
asthma problems.
Here's a paragraph from endocrinologist Dr. Diana
Schwarzbein's book The Schwarzbein Principle ...
Eating too many carbohydrates causes insulin
levels to rise too high, which leads to the
excessive formation of hormones known as the
eicosanoids. One of the eicosanoids' main
functions is the relaxing or contracting of
various smooth-muscle groups. Eicosanoids are
also involved with immune-system responses.
When insulin is high, it disrupts eicosanoid
balance so the bronchial smooth muscles contract
and immune responses are exaggerated. The end
result is asthma.
For the past month I've eliminated cereal, bread, pasta,
rice, potatoes, etc., and am beginning to sleep thru the
night without waking with asthma. So there may be some-
thing to the theory. Dr. S's diet is high in protein and
certain "good" fats, and is limited in "good" carbohydrates
(low-starch fruits and vegetables), and she discourages
the use of alcohol and stimulants like coffee. Bummer.
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