Diet plays a major role in controlling asthma and other inflammatory diseases like arthritis. Many earlier studies have reported that high consumption of fatty fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids) and high consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits are associated with a reduction in breathing problems in asthmatics. Other studies have reported that adequate levels of calcium and magnesium (either in diet of supplements) have also been associated with a reduction in asthmatic symptoms.
Nutritional supplementation may also be useful for controlling asthma. A recent study of 60 asthmatic children in Egypt studied the effects of daily supplementation with 200 milligrams of vitamin C, 15 milligrams of zinc or 1,000 milligrams (about 1/4 teaspoonful) of fish oil. Compared to placebo, all 3 of these dietary supplements significantly reduced asthmatic symptoms, improved pulmonary function and significantly reduced lung inflammation. (Lung function was measured by such factors as forced expiratory volume at 1 second [FEV1]. Lung inflamation was measured by such factors as levels of sputum=spit white blood cells and inflammatory proteins). This research is published in the May 2009 Acta Paediatrica
Vitamin C, zinc and omega 3 fats all play a role in reducing inflammation. Asthmatics should get a well balanced diet with supplements of such nutrients as vitamin B complex, vitamins C and E, omega 3 fats, zinc, magnesium and calcium.
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