The Mediterranean diet may help prevent asthma

The Mediterranean diet may help prevent asthma

Inflammation is a complicating factor in chronic disease. And many studies have shown that the Mediterranean diet (rich in antioxidants, minerals, and polyphenols) has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. So it’s not a surprise really to find that this famously healthy diet might reduce asthma risk.

Researchers at Mexico’s National Institute of Public Health used food frequency questionnaires to assess the diets of nearly 1,500 young children. Dietary intake was also recorded for the children’s mothers during pregnancy.

Results showed that higher intake of foods in a Mediterranean-style diet was linked to a significantly lower risk of asthma, as well as lower risk of rhinitis (nasal inflammation), itchy, watery eyes, and wheezing.

The pre-birth diets of mothers had no apparent effect on asthma risk.

You can read more about the Mediterranean diet in the e-Alert“Alligator Pear” (6/19/06).

Source:
“Mediterranean Diet Linked to Lower Asthma Attacks” Stephen Daniells, NutraIngredients-USA, 10/6/08, nutraingredients-usa.com