Omega-3 fatty acid intake potentiates bronchodilator response in patients with obesity and poorly controlled asthma

Obesity is linked to poorly controlled asthma and may impair bronchodilator response. This study examines dietary factors affecting asthma symptoms, control, and lung function.

In a multi-center, cross-sectional study of 102 individuals with obesity and poorly controlled asthma, we assessed dietary intake (Arizona Food Frequency Questionnaire), asthma symptoms and control (standardized questionnaires), and lung function (spirometry and bronchodilator response). Correlations between omega-3 and -6 fatty acids with asthma outcomes and lung function were examined using Pearson correlations and multivariate regression.

Median age was 56 (IQR 41-64) years, and median BMI was 37 (35-42) kg/m². Fifty-four percent were African American and 75 % were female. Median total calorie intake was 2029 (1199-3837) kcal, median total omega-3 intake was 1.07 (0.63-2.04) g, and median omega-6 intake was 24.54 (13.31-45.35) g. No significant relationship was found between fatty acid intake and asthma symptoms, asthma control, or baseline lung function. However, percent bronchodilator response was positively correlated with omega-3 fatty acids (r = 0.273, p = 0.0074). After adjusting for caloric intake, for every 1 g increase in omega-3 intake, there was a 4 % increase in percent bronchodilator response.

Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids may influence bronchodilator response in patients with poorly controlled asthma and obesity. Interventions to improve overall dietary quality, such as increased omega-3 intake, may improve medication response in people with obesity and poorly controlled asthma. Future research is needed to better understand this association and determine if additional dietary factors might affect medication responses.