Everyone knows that diet and nutrition are essential to a healthy lifestyle. In recent years, however, the importance of eating right is becoming evident not only in maintaining wellness, but as a treatment for many chronic illnesses. Among those illnesses that can be treated with diet is asthma. Maintaining a diet with certain healthy aspects can decrease the frequency of attacks and the severity of symptoms for those afflicted with this disease.
A new study has showed that avoiding certain types of fats and foods in the diet, while adding omega-3 fish oils can be beneficial in treating asthma symptoms. Nearly ten percent of kids in the United States have asthma, an epidemic that is only now beginning to be understood.
It is known that omega-3 fish oils are anti-inflammatory in the right amounts, and since asthma is partially caused by an inflammation of the air passages, adding the oil can help to treat the inflammation and by extension, the asthma itself.
A healthy diet also results in a healthy weight. This is important because obese kids are at higher risk for severe asthma attacks. The excess weight puts more strain on the cardiovascular system, which makes instances more frequent and symptoms worse. In addition, asthma medications are less effective in obese kids.
Making sure that children with asthma maintain a healthy and nutritious diet, and a good level of physical activity, can treat and reduce the condition.
The results of the study published by Dr. Jason Lang of Nemours Children’s Hospital, are very encouraging. The study is the first of its kind to evaluate the use of Omega-3 fatty acids as a secondary treatment for asthma symptoms. The study finds that while the risk of harm is almost nil, the benefits can be many.
Still, the study is too young to be conclusive. More research has to be conducted to determine the need for specific sources, doses and types of the fatty acid content to produce measurable and repeatable clinical effects.
While the study is young, anecdotal evidence is exceptionally promising. One participant, 14-year-old Arturo Vega, has adopted the recommended diet and says that he has not suffered a single asthma attack since adding Omega-3 fatty acids to his diet.
Dr. Lang is currently planning to extend the study for another year, into mid-2016. Participants will be required to make multiple visits to the clinic to monitor their diet and activities. There is hope that with more evidence, adding these fatty acids will be adopted as a regular treatment for the condition, which could reduce the need for chemical medication.
Regardless of the specific findings regarding Omega-3 fish oils, adopting a good diet and healthy lifestyle is always of benefit, regardless of whether the person suffers from a medical condition. What are your thoughts as to altering diet and nutrition as a means of treating asthma? We are eager to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment below and let us know!
