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We are discussing Cooking for life
With Kurma Dasa, Sue Dengate, Dave Tuff, Jacinta Dugbaza, Roger Bayley

Question:
Five years ago I developed an asthma cough and was given steroid inhalers and a preventer. I normally drink lot of orange juice but recently when I ran out of it for a few days, my son noticed that I was not coughing much. Wine also makes me cough. What could cause this?

Answer:
Sue - Sulphite preservatives are used extensively in wine, juice and other drinks and are the food chemicals most likely to be associated with asthma cough or asthma. Another possibility could be natural chemicals called salicylates in many fruit including oranges and grapes, also in aspirin and many other anti-inflammatory medications.

Asthmatics rarely make the connection between what they eat and their asthma symptoms unless reactions occur within 30 minutes, yet relatively few people are affected within that time. For most people, it isn’t until you avoid problem food chemicals – such as running out of orange juice - that you see the difference.

Many asthmatics report that they can consume sulphites with no obvious symptoms, but will then experience asthma when exposed to triggers such as cold air, exercise or a virus.

Sulphites (220-228) are in many products including sausages and dried apricots. See ‘How to avoid sulphites’, http://www.fedupwithfoodadditives.info/factsheets/Factsulphites.htm
Other additives such as artificial colours and benzoate preservatives can also contribute to asthma.

Always consult your doctor before reducing your medication and carry your puffer because whenever you eat food you haven’t prepared yourself, you could be exposed to sulphites. Your asthma plan should tell you what to do when symptoms worsen.

For more information, see www.fedupwithfoodadditives.info/factsheets/Factasthma.htm or email confoodnet@ozemail.com.au for a list of supportive dietitians who can help you to sort out which food additives and natural food chemicals may be contributing to your problems.

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