This information is published within the "British Guideline on the Management of Asthma: A national clinical guideline" developed by British Thoracic Society & Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). Please refer to the full guideline document for more detailed information.
Dietary Manipulation
Minerals
Low magnesium intakes have been associated with higher prevalence of asthma. An intervention study of magnesium supplementation has suggested a reduced rate of bronchial hyper-responsiveness and wheeze. Studies of sodium and antioxidant supplements such as selenium and vitamin C have produced little or no evidence of benefit amongst patients with asthma.
Fish oils and fatty acids
In vitro studies suggest that supplementing diet with the omega n-3 fatty acids found predominantly in fish oils might reduce the inflammation associated with asthma. Controlled clinical studies in small numbers have on the whole been negative, with a Cochrane review concluding that there was little evidence to recommend fish oil supplements in asthma.
Weight reduction in obese patients with asthma
A small randomised parallel group study has shown improved asthma control following weight reduction in obese patients with asthma. Weight reduction is recommended in obese patients with asthma, to improve asthma control.
Complementary therapies