Imagine the struggle of gasping, wheezing, and straining every time you try to take a breath. This is a constant reality for those suffering from asthma. This uncomfortable and often terrifying feeling is caused by inflammation invading your airways, resulting in swollen and narrowed bronchial tubes. Asthmatic inflammation can be triggered by environmental allergens or it can be chronic, meaning it occurs whether allergens are present or not. Living with asthma can be debilitating and even life-threatening, but recent research has found a promising natural remedy that could help alleviate the symptoms… omega-3 fatty acids.
Fight asthma with fish oil
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have found that omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can reduce the molecules that fuel asthma-related inflammation. These molecules, known as Immunoglobulin E (IgE), are antibodies released by your immune system and are the primary culprit behind allergies and asthma.
The study observed asthma sufferers, from mild to severe cases, most of whom were taking corticosteroids—medication used to reduce inflammation in airways allowing them to breathe again. The results demonstrated that the omega-3s in fish oil reduced the production of these IgE antibodies in the participants. It’s important to note, however, that this treatment was slightly less effective for severe asthma sufferers due to their high doses of oral steroids, which can block the effects of omega-3s.
Despite this, the improvement offered by omega-3s can be extremely beneficial for those living with asthma, even if it only provides minor relief of symptoms.
Additional benefits of omega-3 fatty acids
Apart from helping to alleviate asthma symptoms, omega-3 fatty acids provide a range of additional benefits for overall health, including:
- Improving brain health
- Fighting cancer
- Reducing signs of aging
- Easing osteoarthritis
- Increasing muscle strength
- Battling depression
- Boosting heart health
While the researchers in the study used a specially-crafted fish oil preparation, similar benefits can be experienced by purchasing high-quality omega-3 supplements from healthcare stores.
Making omega-3s a part of your daily routine
Incorporating omega-3s into your daily diet is not only relatively easy, but also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Eat more fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and should be consumed at least twice a week.
- Take high-quality supplements: If you’re not a fan of fish, consider taking a good quality fish oil supplement.
- Cook with canola or flaxseed oil: Both of these oils, available in many stores, are high in omega-3 fatty acids and can be safely used for cooking or seasoning salads.
A natural alternative to traditional medication
Integrating more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is an excellent step in helping to reduce asthma and allergy symptoms, especially if you’re actively seeking a more natural way to manage your condition. As always, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or adding supplements to your routine. Asthma is a serious condition, and proper management is vital in ensuring your health and well-being.
