Leukotrienes are also specifically involved in broncho-constriction
and mucus production. This inflammatory hypersensitivity can be related to food
and environmental allergies, vitamin deficiencies, a history of respiratory
infections, and increased steroid or antibiotic use. Asthma attacks can be
drastically reduced with specific foods and supplements that decrease these
inflammatory molecules, offer nutritional support to the lining of the
respiratory tract and alleviate bronchospasm. Eliminating allergens and
mucogenic foods also play an important role in decreasing the prevalence of
attacks.
If you suffer from asthma, allergies, and frequent respiratory problems, you may be able to juice your way to better breathing. A large number of studies show that you can increase your breathing capacity by consuming a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and D; folic acid; zinc; omega-3 fatty acids; and other nutrients. Because these vitamins and minerals are all found in fresh fruits and vegetables.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, organic and pesticide-free, can
provide essential vitamins and antioxidant support to decrease inflammation and
to fight free radicals in the body, as well as provide overall immune support.
Fish and fish oil in the form of omega-3 essential fatty acids can lower the
hyperactivity of the airways by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent. According
to Dr. Alan L. Miller, N.D., in his article on the treatment of asthma in
"Alternative Medicine Review," these fatty acids reroute the inflammatory
biochemical reactions in the body, so the end products are much less potent
forms of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, decreasing hyper-reactivity in the
lung tissue.
Several other items also have anti-inflammatory affects, including water, quercetin, ginger, licorice root, thea sinesis (green tea) and tumeric (which contains curcumin, a constituent primarily responsible for its anti-inflammtory action). An increased consumption of allium-containing vegetables, such as onions and garlic, can decrease bronchospasm and inflammation by inhibiting the pro-inflammatory pathways in the cells. Decreasing or eliminating sugar from the diet decreases formation and viscosity of mucus in the respiratory tract.
Ginger also reduces platelet aggregation, acts as an antioxidant and inhibits the most powerful inflammatory pathways that synthesize prostaglandins, leukotrienes and thromboxane. Gingko biloba inhibits platelet activating factor, a key mediator in asthma allergies and inflammation. It also acts as a bronchodilator.
Calcium/magnesium supplementation decreases smooth muscle contraction, which is especially important to decrease bronchospasm. Deficiencies in vitamin C, niacin, B6, magnesium and zinc can decrease the activity of the desired metabolic pathway of essential fatty acids, leading to an increased production of pro-inflammatory molecules.
The antioxidants in fruit and vegetables can increase
respiratory health and overall immunity. Apples, especially, and non-citrus
fruits can decrease mucus production. Fruits high in vitamin C help decrease
the severity of asthma symptoms. The increased fiber content in fruit can
decrease inflammation systemically in the body and increase elimination of
toxins.
Vitamins C and E are essential antioxidants for properly lining the airway surfaces. They can decrease the response from white blood cells that are releasing abundant inflammatory secretions, called histamines. Decreased levels of these antioxidants in the fluid lining of the lungs has been shown in asthmatics, reports Dr. Miller. Children of smokers have an increased rate of asthma, as smoke depletes respiratory vitamin C.
Eliminating suspected dietary allergens is the most important
step in decreasing inflammation and preventing asthma attacks. The most common
allergens are: eggs, dairy, wheat, nuts, shellfish and fish. Other contributing
factors can be chocolate, citrus, sulfites, preservatives and food colorings.
According to the Mayo Clinic, you should also consider your exposure to
environmental allergens, such as smoke, pollen, mold, dust, animal dander,
mites and cockroaches, that may trigger or worsen an asthma attack.
CAUTION
Undiagnosed asthma should not be treated with foods alone. If
you suspect you have asthma or it is currently untreated, contact your health
care professional to assess and properly diagnose the severity of your
condition, as it may be unexpectedly life-threatening.
REFERENCES
· "The Clinician's
Handbook of Natural Medicine"; Joseph E. Pizzorno, Jr., Michael T. Murray
and Herb Joiner-Bey; 2008
· "Alternative
Medicine Review"; "The Etiologies, Pathophysiology and
Alternative/Complementary Treatment of Asthma"; Alan L. Miller; 2001
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