Problem: Wheezing or coughing

Many asthmatics know their symptoms can be aggravated by additives called sulphites in things like wine or dried fruit, but you can now add high-fat foods to the list of triggers. In recent trials at the University of Newcastle, a team found that the more fat people ate the more likely they were to develop asthma. Researchers say that fat causes immune cells to be activated and move into lungs, worsening airway inflammation.

Eating fibre however,  seems to reverse the inflammation.

Problem: Sensitive teeth

Sugary drinks like sports drinks, soft drinks or fruit juice can erode tooth enamel, but a study by researchers at the UK’s University of Bristol found that fruity teas actually erode enamel at the same rate or even faster than fruit juice.

Stick to green or black tea as they don’t damage teeth at all, says experts.

Problem: Adult acne

Skin specialists believe that what you eat can impact your skin. A diet of high-GI foods like refined cabs and sugar can lead to acne. Insulin increases levels of androgens which raises sebum production, which acne-causing bacteria feed on. All these combined causes the spots.

In a study where patients were put on a low-GI diet for three months, there was a dramatic reduction in symptoms.

Problem: Rushing to the toilet to pee a lot

Carbonated drinks or soft drinks often contribute to overactive bladder, says experts. Many soft drinks may contain caffeine which might amplify the urge to urinate but also ingredients like artificial sweeteners and ascorbic or citric acids commonly found in these drinks are thought to increase bladder pressure and muscle contractions.

Best to stick to water.

Problem: Rash caused by exercise

This strange condition is called food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA) and it occurs when vulnerable people exercise within two hours of eating specific foods, say experts. The person may develop hives, itching and reddening of the skin as well as gut symptoms and breathing difficulty – this is a medical emergency and you should go straight to the hospital.

See an allergy specialist to identify your food trigger.

Problem: Bad body odour

British pharmacist Dr Charles Stewart discovered the link between tomatoes and body odour. If you do have a case of serious body odour, try cutting out tomatoes for two weeks and see if there’s an improvement.

Eat watermelons instead as it’s another great source of lycopene, which the tomatoes are known for.

Problem: Poor sense of smell

High fat diet seems to dull your sense of smell, say researchers. Fat causes inflammation that damages cells in the lining of the nose.

East less fat and your sense of smell will return.

Problem: Itchy mouth

Called pollen food syndrome this occurs because proteins in some food and drinks are similar to those found in certain pollens. If someone sensitive to pollen eats these, the body reacts causing symptoms like itching and tingling says experts.

Problem: Headaches

These could trigger headaches believed to be caused by swelling blood vessels in the head. Some people react to chemicals in certain foods, like tyramine, found in red wine and aged cheese.

Problem: Gassiness

It is not only embarrassing, bothersome but smelly too. Sometimes, changing your diet can clear the air. The sugar lactose in dairy foods is a common cause of gas. Some legumes including dried peas and beans can produce gas.

Cutting back on high-fiber foods, and then gradually increasing them, can help identify the amount that can be tolerated. Fried food, fatty meat and some sauces can cause gas, as well as carbonated and sparkling drinks.