A combination supplement containing omega-3, vitamin C and zinc may improve symptoms of asthma, a condition on the rise, suggests a new study from Egypt.
The trio of nutrients were associated with improvements in asthma measures, lung function, and markers of inflammation in the lungs, according to findings of a randomised, double blind, placebo-self-controlled crossover trial published in Acta Pædiatrica.
“Children with moderately persistent bronchial asthma may get benefit from their diet supplementation with omega- 3 fatty acids, Zn and vitamin C,” wrote the researchers, led by Mohammed Al Biltagi from Tanta University in Egypt.
The study adds to a growing body of science linking fish consumption and fruit and vegetable intakes to a reduction in the risk or asthma, or improvements in the symptoms associated with the condition.
Good food sources of omega 3 are from oily fish – salmon, mackerel, sardines, fresh tuna and herring. Vitamin C is found in fresh fruit and vegetables especially good sources are red peppers, kiwi fruit, watercress and spinach. Zinc is found in pumpkin seeds, whole grains such as brown rice and whole meal bread and also seafood.
