Asthma is an inflammatory condition of the respiratory passages that can cause coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing. Animals, dust, pollen, molds and weather changes are some of the common triggers for asthma. Avoiding those triggers is the best way to control and manage symptoms. Medications such as corticosteroids and beta-agonist inhalers are commonly prescribed to asthma patients. Certain vitamins and natural supplements may also help manage symptoms.
Vitamins A and C
Vitamins A and C are antioxidant vitamins that help neutralize the harmful free radicals formed as a result of various metabolic processes in the body. These vitamins are essential for growth, development, repair and maintenance of various tissues in the body. A study published in the July 2009 edition of the Thorax has found that low dietary intakes of vitamins A and C significantly increase the risk of asthma and wheezing. Deficiency of vitamin A can be avoided by eating foods such as meat, dairy products, fish and eggs. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, berries, cantaloupes, tomatoes, peppers and green leafy vegetables. Synthetic supplements of these vitamins can also be purchased at most pharmacies. However, it's not known whether the supplements have the same effect as dietary sources. Also, overdose of vitamin A can lead to headache, dizziness, bone pain and liver damage, and overuse of vitamin C can lead to upset stomach and diarrhea. Consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a component of the vitamin B complex found in green leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and peas. It plays a major role in the formation of new cells. A deficiency of this vitamin can affect the body in many ways. According to an article published in the November 2010 edition of Allergy, deficiency of folic acid is associated with asthma and shortness of breath. Synthetic forms of this vitamin can be found in the vitamin B complex supplements that are well tolerated by most patients with minimal side effects.
Vitamin D
Also known as the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D can be produced endogenously by the human body upon exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D can also be obtained from foods such as dairy products, oysters and fish, and from synthetic supplements. However, it's important to follow dosage instructions carefully. Chronic overuse of vitamin D supplements can lead to kidney stones, vomiting and muscle pain. An April 2010 Science Daily article said vitamin D may enhance the effects of anti-asthma corticosteroid drugs. Vitamin D deficiency may also increase the severity of asthma symptoms.
Vitamin E
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggests that a form of vitamin E known as gamma-tocopherol may reduce inflammation and decrease oxidative stress in asthma patients without any major side effects. Gamma-tocopherol is commonly found in foods such as nuts, olives, corn and wheat germ. Most common supplements of vitamin E may not have it. Look for the ingredients on the label of synthetic vitamin supplements, and consult a physician before taking them.
References
- "Thorax"; Association between antioxidant vitamins and asthma outcome measures: systematic review and meta-analysis; S Allen et al; July 2009
- "Allergy"; Atopy, asthma, and lung function in relation to folate and vitamin B12 in adults; B. H. Thuesen et al; November 2010
- Science Daily: Low Vitamin D Levels Associated With More Asthma Symptoms and Medication Use
- National Center for Complementary and Alternate Medicine: Study Suggests Vitamin E May Help People With Asthma
