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Diet as a risk factor for atopy and asthma
Graham Devereux1, Anthony Seaton
1Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, Scotland, UK. Graham.Devereux@nhs.net
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|June 9, 2005
Summary
Dietary changes, including reduced antioxidants and altered polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), may influence asthma and atopic disease. Early life interventions focusing on diet are being explored to mitigate these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition science
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hypothesized link between dietary patterns and rising rates of asthma and atopic diseases.
- Observational studies suggest associations between dietary antioxidants, lipids, and asthma/atopic disease parameters.
- Complex roles of omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in immune responses and disease development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the hypothesized role of dietary antioxidants and lipids in asthma and atopic disease.
- To explore the potential impact of dietary interventions during pregnancy and early childhood.
- To investigate individual variations in response to dietary supplementation.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies on dietary intake and allergic diseases.
- Analysis of proposed mechanisms of action for dietary antioxidants and lipids on immune pathways.
- Evaluation of results from interventional supplementation studies.
Main Results:
- Epidemiological data suggest beneficial associations between dietary antioxidants and lipids with asthma and atopic disease.
- n-6 and n-3 PUFA associations are complex and may differ between asthma and atopic dermatitis.
- Interventional studies in established disease yielded disappointing results, shifting focus to early life and pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Dietary antioxidant and lipid intakes may be crucial in determining disease expression during critical developmental periods.
- Targeting dietary interventions towards pregnant women and young children is a promising avenue.
- Individual variability in response to supplementation warrants further investigation.
- Further research is justified to confirm if dietary interventions can reduce the risk of asthma and atopic disease.
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