What food toxins can cause shortness of breath?

Breathlessness or a shortness of breath primarily means a difficulty while breathing. This condition is also referred to as dyspnea. A temporary shortness of breath may also be experienced due to extreme weather conditions, any kind of exhaustive activity and at a high altitude. Persistent and prolonged breathlessness is indicative of a more serious underlying problem. If the condition arises suddenly, with a severe intensity, then it is important to seek medical assistance. Food is known to contain its own natural chemicals, which are considered to be essential for our health and growth. These are known as biological toxins and are quite different from their chemical counterparts. These biological toxins are produced by a large number of living organisms such as plants, fungi and bacteria. Vitamins, proteins, sugars and carbohydrates all contain these natural chemicals. However, the level of these chemicals or toxins present in some foods may be higher than other and this is when they can prove to be harmful to our health.

The reason behind the presence of these chemicals or natural toxins has not been established exactly. However theories state that, a toxin may need to be present in these food substances, to fight or rather to protect them against any insect attacks. Thus these toxins then in some manner act as natural pesticides. Toxins could also be formed to provide protection to the plant from any kind of spoilage, particularly when damage is caused due to weather conditions, handling or microbes. Now, the strength or concentration of a toxin in a particular food item, as well as an individual’s own sensitivity towards a natural toxin, will basically decide if he/she experiences an adverse reaction or not. It will also determine the severity of the symptoms that will be experienced.

Some people however, tend to have a natural intolerance to certain types of food, on account of the substances or chemicals that they contain. To cite an example, food items which contain histamine are known to induce the symptoms of breathless and sneezing in some people. Thus an individual’s allergy or intolerance to food types is largely responsible for the symptoms that they encounter. Any kind of food reaction which causes breathlessness, fainting and dizziness needs medical attention. If you experience similar symptoms, then you would need to consult your physician, in order to determine exactly, what kind of food toxins and food substances you are allergic to, so that they can be eliminated from your diet.

answered by G M

Most biological toxins are poisonous substances produced by a very wide range of living organisms which include flowering plants, bacteria and fungi. These toxins are completely natural and differ greatly from chemical agents. Toxins that occur naturally include oxalic acid which is found in rhubarb leaves and celery tops. This acid is essential for calcium formation in smaller doses. Fungi like wild mushrooms may contain toxins that cause hallucinations and even death. Toxic moulds found in cool rooms are thought to cause illness including shortness of breath, muscle aches and rashes.

In addition, some people are just naturally intolerant to some foods and the substances found in them. For example, foods that are laden with histamine can cause symptoms such as sneezing and shortness of breath. Some studies have shown that avoiding foods like cheese and alcoholic beverages like wine results in a reduced complaint intensity. For people with food allergies, a number of foods can cause shortness of breath. If not treated correctly and in a timely manner, a food allergy can be life-threatening. Any food reaction that causes shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting requires immediate evaluation and treatment in a medical emergency department. You must consult your doctor and determine what foods and food toxins you are allergic to.

answered by G M