A Mediterranean-type diet may protect children from developing asthma and allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever. A Mediterranean diet is a diet high in vegetables, fruits and nuts, legumes, fish and cereals, and low in dairy products, meat, junk food and fat. Diet during pregnancy and childhood is thought to play an important role in children's asthma risk. Researchers from Mexico examined the association between both children's diet and their mother's diet during pregnancy, and the development of asthma and allergic rhinitis in a random sample of 1,476 children aged 6 to 7 years. Dietary data of children's intake in the last 12 months and their mothers' intake during pregnancy was collected, through a questionnaire. Among children, it was found that a greater adherence in the previous year to a Mediterranean type diet was associated with less asthma, wheezing, allergic rhinitis, sneezing and itchy-watery eyes. However, no association between consumption of such a diet during pregnancy and reduced risk of asthma or allergic rhinitis was found in children. The suggestion that a Mediterranean diet may protect against asthma is biologically plausible. This type of a diet is rich in antioxidants that can protect the lung and airway from oxidative damage. It is also rich in fish, a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, and light in omega-6 fatty acids. This ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids has been shown to reduce harmful levels of pro-inflammatory proteins, which are often increased in asthma sufferers. Therefore, the above study provides additional evidence of the benefits of healthy dietary habits and supports the need for public health measures to promote a healthy diet among children.
Allergy
October 2008