Natural Asthma Treatments Using Nutrition and Supplements

by Webmaster, All4NaturalHealth.com

This page discusses some helpful natural asthma treatments using nutrition and supplements.

Do note that these natural remedies for asthma serve as measures to prevent and control the condition, and as supporting mechanisms for other treatment modalities; they do not constitute an asthma natural cure, per se. As with all other chronic diseases, to fully recover from asthma, a comprehensive and holistic approach must be taken.

Lycopene

Lycopene is an antioxidant which is richly found in tomatoes. One particular study showed that the consumption of lycopene capsules markedly reduced the symptoms suffered in exercise-induced asthma.

Magnesium

Generally speaking, magnesium levels have been found to be low among asthma sufferers. This mineral acts to dilate, i.e. to widen, the bronchial tract. In asthma attacks, this airway gets constricted; this very action of magnesium thus helps to alleviate the symptoms of the condition, and to improve ease of breathing. It is also said that magnesium can help to prevent spasms of the bronchial tract.

In addition, there is evidence to suggest that dietary magnesium can help to improve the function of one's lungs, as well as to lower bronchial reactivity. Magnesium is thus a useful addition to any natural asthma treatment.

Different sources quote varying dosages - either 300mg, 400mg, or 500mg of magnesium supplements, once per day. A couple of suggestions for the form of magnesium to be taken include magnesium aspartate and magnesium citrate.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

During asthma attacks, the lungs become inflamed. And omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory substances known to Man. These fatty acids have been shown in studies to lower the risk of getting asthma, as well as to reduce the symptoms suffered by asthmatics.

Overall, on top of being powerful additions to natural asthma treatments, omega 3 fatty acids are also very important for good health, including heart health and bone health.

Excellent sources of these essential fatty acids include flax oil and fish oil. To obtain omega-3 fatty acids from fish, be sure to eat the fatty or oily varieties, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel.

Selenium

Low levels of selenium have been linked in several studies to a higher risk of getting asthma. Possible daily dosages range from 100mcg to 200mcg.

Vitamin B6

Research has revealed that many asthmatics are deficient in vitamin B6. Whether this is because of the asthma itself, or is caused by asthma drug medications, is something which is not exactly clear.

In one particular study, vitamin B6 supplementation was observed to reduce the symptoms of asthmatic children, as well as to lower the amount of asthma medications which they needed. In another study, this time carried out on adults, vitamin B6 supplements helped to reduce the frequency as well as severity of asthma symptoms.

All in all, the effectiveness of vitamin B6 supplements in tackling asthma may not yet be very clearly established. Even then, it may still be a helpful supplement for natural asthma treatments.

Useful Supporting Nutrients and Supplements

In addition to the abovementioned supplements, there are also several compounds which could be helpful supporting elements for natural asthma relief.

Antioxidants

Some researchers and doctors feel that free radicals in the body have a role to play in triggering asthma attacks. Thus, antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene may be helpful. In any case, antioxidants are critical for overall good health.

Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme which has been found to reduce the thickness of mucus. This compound could thus be helpful for asthmatics.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid found in plants which has anti-allergic and antihistamine properties. Asthmatics who also suffer from other allergies may thus find this compound useful. A possible dosage is 100mg, three times a day.

Thymus Extract

Certain studies have suggested that this substance can help to improve the symptoms suffered by asthmatics. A possibility for this effect is its ability to boost overall immune function.

Vitamin C

A 1g dose of vitamin C per day has been observed to reduce the possibility of spasm of the bronchial tract. Other studies have suggested that this important vitamin could reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks, as well as prevent asthma attacks.

Vitamin C is a critical nutrient, one which most of us are not taking enough of. Some practitioners and authors actually advocate that several grams of vitamin C per day are necessary for optimal health. Broadly speaking, the buffered version is better than the standard one.

Conclusion

For children, suggested dosages should be adjusted proportionately downwards, according to their body weight.

For a better understanding of how to use a natural asthma treatment to prevent, deal with and even heal this problematic condition, read the other related asthma pages.

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