Recent studies have shown that a diet rich in fish and fruity vegetables (e.g. tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, green beans and zucchini) has a protective role against childhood asthma symptoms (wheeze and atopy). Although earlier studies have been inconclusive, the most recent study of 460 children has given some very convincing evidence.

The study was done among 6.5 year old children on the Spanish Mediterranean island of Menorca. Growth measurements and skin prick tests with 6 common aeroallergens were performed on children, while parents completed a questionnaire on the child's respiratory and allergic symptoms and a 96-item food frequency questionnaire.

Gathered evidence suggested that daily fruity vegetable intake of more than 40 g has beneficial effects on current and atopic wheeze, while daily fish intake of at least 60.5 g appears to reduce the risk for atopy in childhood.

Observed children had a relatively high average daily intake of fruits (177 g) and fish (54 g) and a moderate intake of vegetables (59 g). Intake of fruity vegetables (tomatoes, eggplants, cucumber, green beans, zucchini) was associated with beneficial effects on current wheeze and atopic wheeze.

Increasing intake of fruity vegetables appears to significantly decrease a trend for wheeze, while consumption of other food groups such as nonfruit vegetables (lettuce, green salad, spinach, carrots, beetroot), fruits, dairy products, cereals, legumes, meat, sweets, sugar and lipids interestingly, has not shown a significant correlation with atopy and/or wheezing.

Although biological mechanisms underlying the observed associations remain unknown, investigations show there is a strong correlation between dietary intake of certain foods and respiratory and allergic symptoms.

Source: Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and Fish Protect Against Childhood Wheeze and Atopy (Medscape)