If you’re sticking to your health-related New Year’s resolutions—Good for you! Maybe you’ve joined a gym or stocked your kitchen with healthy food. Now here’s the caveat: Make sure your new resolutions are actually healthy, for YOU. If you have allergies or sensitivities, some diet or environment changes could trigger allergic reactions. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology suggest some guidelines to keep you well.
First, check food labels and ingredients. If you haven’t had a certain food for awhile, especially nuts or soy products, pay attention how you feel when you eat something new. If you have unusual itching or swelling, you may be allergic to that food.
Next, watch for allergens at the gym. If you have latex allergy or sensitivity, be careful of rubber mats, balls or coated free weights. If you develop a rash or hives, see your physician.
Third, be mindful of outdoor allergens. Pollen, grass, and air pollution can all contribute to breathing problems for people with allergies—especially when exercising outside.
Finally, wheezing during a workout could be caused by a condition called exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). EIB is more common in the winter, especially if you're just getting started with your workout routine. Go slow and talk to your doctor if you're concerned about shortness of breath or unusual fatigue during exercise.
