ASTHMA

One of my favourite aunts lost her life in seconds from an asthma attack when she was only 51 years of age. Presently doctors are encouraged with tests that are showing how to restore better breathing patterns. Our last Blog showed us how our health in general could be improved by paying attention to the food we eat as well as and the air we breathe. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology clarifies many details for us. Diet is the controlling factor, says Richard N. Firshein, who directs this center for Comprehensive Medicine in New York City and is the author of “Reversing Asthma.” The body once again calls upon antioxidants for help. As noted yesterday these busy workers were helping to thwart arthritis and are also willing to take on asthma and a crew will be dispatched to help the asthma department. All the foods used to help arthritics can also be of help to asthmatics. Among all the fats available there is one type that is considered best – the fish oils. Three foods that are thought to have special protective power are the antioxidants Vitamins C and E and the trace mineral selenium. Vitamin E can dramatically lower the risk of asthma. In a study of 5,000 nurses, Harvard University researchers found that those getting the most Vitamin E in their diets were 47 percent less likely to have asthma than those than those getting the least. Vitamin E is found in almonds, sunflower seeds, whole grain cereal, spinach and kale, and will go a long way in keeping the lungs strong. A six ounce glass of fresh orange juice delivers 93 mg of vitamin C. In a study of 115 people, researchers in New Zealand found that those getting the most selenium in their diets were five times less likely to have asthma than those getting the least. Chicken is one of the meats as well as the sea foods that are good selenium selections. One Brazil nut contains 120 mcg, but it should be noted that some people find that tree nuts can cause an asthma attack.