Asthma is a common respiratory condition that has reached epidemic proportions, with as many as 1 in 20 adults estimated to suffer from it.

Asthma causes swollen and narrowed airways in the lungs leading to a variety of symptoms (cough, breathlessness, wheezing, etc.). Individuals with asthma have very sensitive airways and react to allergy-causing particles, or environmental “triggers.” Contact with these “triggers” cause asthma symptoms to start or worsen. Many asthma sufferers must keep an inhaler in case of an asthma attack. Inhalers are necessary for acute asthma attacks and should be available at all times in case of an attack.

Over the long-term, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and considering some nutritional supplements can help asthma sufferers. Nutritional supplements can help.

Individuals with asthma may be lacking in certain key nutrients, such as vitamins C and B6, and the mineral magnesium. Vitamin C may help stop allergic reactions while vitamin B6 may reduce some symptoms of asthma such as wheezing. Magnesium may help with relaxing the bronchial muscles and reduce severity of asthma attacks. Moreover, if allergies seem to trigger asthma attacks, fish oil may help to minimize the body’s inflammatory response.

Fish oil contains the essential fat, omega-3, which has anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial to the immune system. The best dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids is in deep cold water fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring. If fish is not a common part of your diet, then fish oil supplements can provide this essential fat. Also, the bioflavonoid, quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties and may help block allergic reactions and reduce bronchial inflammation.

It is important for asthma patients to maintain regular visits to their physician to keep their condition in check. It is important to discuss nutritional supplementation with your doctor as well.