If you were to believe all the late-night infomercials, weight loss is as easy as popping a pill. But true weight loss comes from lifestyle changes including healthy eating and exercise. When you have asthma, exercising for weight loss might seem to be an impossible task. But there are ways you can take the steps that are necessary for weight loss without flaring up asthma symptoms.
Why Lose Weight
Not only can certain forms of exercise be difficult when you have asthma, some medications (such as short-term oral corticosteroids) can increase hunger and lead to weight gain. Despite the added complications, you can lose weight while keeping your asthma symptoms under control. And losing excess pounds is worth the effort. Not only will you look great in a pair of jeans, you'll boost your energy and reduce your risk of many chronic conditions including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. What's more, losing excess pounds may have a positive impact on your lung function.
Asthma-Friendly Exercise
An active lifestyle is a necessary component for weight loss. In order to have an active lifestyle, it's important to know your own triggers and limitations. If cold air often triggers asthma symptoms, then you can rule out hockey and other cold-weather sports. And people with exercise-induced asthma often have trouble with endurance sports like long-distance running and soccer.
However, many cardio options are well-suited to people living with asthma. Choose sports that involve shorter bursts of activity such as volleyball or baseball. And exercise in the comfort of your own living room--such as following an exercise DVD or walking on a treadmill--is also a good choice. You can monitor your breathing and take breaks as needed. Swimming or water aerobics are also good choices.
If you're experiencing asthma symptoms, you can take a break from cardio but still get a good workout. Try strength training or follow a yoga DVD.
Be sure to talk to your doctor before you start any new exercise routine. Your doctor may recommend an inhaler to use before you exercise. Depending on your asthma triggers, other preventions like exercising indoors on high pollen-count days may also be advisable.
Healthy Eating With Asthma
To lose weight, there is one simple rule you need to follow: Burn more calories (through exercise and metabolism) than you eat. There's no need to choke down chalky-tasting diet drinks or buy special foods. Just choose nutrient dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains.
While the jury is still out, there is some debate that certain foods can trigger asthma symptoms. The good news is, suspect foods--such as foods high in saturated fat and/or sodium-- are ones that are wise to avoid when you're trying to lose weight anyway. In addition, it's also important to avoid any foods that trigger an allergic response for you.
Tags: asthma symptoms, weight loss, active lifestyle, also good, excess pounds