Dietary Cocktail May Protect Against Allergy and Asthma

A Mediterranean diet-- well known to protect your heart and decrease cancer risk-- might just also improve your asthma. While there is no one Mediterranean diet, it can be thought of as a 'cocktail' containing the following key components:

• Generous amounts of fruits and vegetables
• Healthy fats such as olive oil
• Non-salt flavorings such as herbs and spices
• Red wine in moderation
• Less red meat consumption
• Eating fish or shellfish several times per week
• Daily exercise

Mediterranean diets may decrease allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms according to a research study that found over a 1 year period children taking in more vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish and cereals and less dairy products, meat, junk food and fat had less asthma and wheezing symptoms , as well as allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing and itchy-watery eyes. Overall risk for developing asthma or allergic rhinitis was not altered.

A Mediterranean diet may not only be good for your heart, but may also be good for your lungs.