John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

Today's column offers some practical advice for those affected by asthma – and a caution that those with asthma should be under the care of a GP.

Asthma is characterised by spasms in airways, causing a reduction in breathing capacity usually with an increase in mucous secretion.
The main cause is a faulty immune response, causing inflammation and constriction of airways.
This can be caused by inadequate nutrition, genetics and exposure to environmental toxins. People with asthma need much higher levels of omega 3, antioxidant Vitamin C and E, other antioxidants such as OPC's, antioxidant trace minerals such as selenium and zinc, B vitamins and magnesium. Low levels of omega 3 encourage airway inflammation, while sub-optimum antioxidant levels can result in increased levels of histamine and other immune system secreted inflammatory compounds. The ideal diet for those affected by asthma is based on fish, some nuts, fruit and vegetables with less sugars and refined carbohydrates.
Apples are great for asthmatics, so a mixture of apples and raw almonds for morning tea. For lunch, a mixed salad with oily fish (sardines or red salmon) and, or, homemade chicken and vegetable soup.
Slow cooked chicken broths can help break down the sticky mucous that is part of asthma.
For dinner lots of steamed or gently stir-fried vegetables with grilled fish and a salad are ideal.
Supplements are important for asthma and I use a combined multi-antioxidant, multi-mineral and multi-vitamin.
I then add a fish oil supplement, Vitamin C and D; and for adults a specific OPC based antioxidant booster.
These supplements will work with the diet to reduce bronchial inflammation, mucous secretion; and will generally promote a more normal immune system.

Give me a call if you need more information. To join my weekly newsletter go to: www.johnarts.co.nz and visit: www.abundant.co.nz
John Arts is a Nutritional Therapist and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on
0800 423 559. To read more go to
www.sunlive.co.nz