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Low maternal vitamin E intake during pregnancy is associated with asthma in 5-year-old children

Graham Devereux1, Stephen W Turner, Leone C A Craig

  • 1Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZB, UK. g.devereux@abdn.ac.uk

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
|June 10, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Maternal intake of vitamin E and zinc during pregnancy is linked to reduced risks of childhood wheezing and asthma. This study highlights the importance of prenatal nutrition for respiratory health in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Respiratory Medicine
  • Nutritional Epidemiology
  • Prenatal Health

Background:

  • Previous research indicated a link between lower maternal vitamin E intake and wheezing in young children.
  • This study builds upon prior findings to investigate a broader range of maternal nutrient intakes and their association with asthma-related outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if maternal nutrient intake during pregnancy is associated with asthma-related outcomes in children at age 5.
  • To explore the relationship between specific nutrients, including vitamin E and zinc, and respiratory health in early childhood.

Main Methods:

  • A longitudinal cohort study followed 1,861 children from pregnancy to age 5.
  • Maternal nutrient intake was assessed via food frequency questionnaires and plasma levels during pregnancy.
  • Children underwent respiratory assessments including spirometry and questionnaires at age 5.

Main Results:

  • Maternal vitamin E intake during pregnancy was associated with reduced odds of wheezing, asthma ever, and persistent wheezing at age 5.
  • Higher maternal plasma alpha-tocopherol correlated with improved lung function (FEV1) in children.
  • Maternal zinc intake was linked to lower odds of asthma ever and active asthma.

Conclusions:

  • Maternal consumption of foods rich in vitamin E and zinc during pregnancy is associated with a lower risk of developing wheeze and asthma in children.
  • Prenatal nutrition plays a significant role in the development of childhood respiratory conditions.
Abstract

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