Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by wheezing and breathing difficulties. It occurs when the airways contract and narrow in response to a trigger or allergen, such as pet dander, environmental pollutants and stress. If you have asthma, your doctor will usually prescribe bronchodilators, also known as relievers, which relax the airways and ease breathing difficulties during an asthma attack. You may also be given preventer medicines which are taken long-term to reduce inflammation in the airways. Certain vitamins may play a role in asthma prevention and control; however, they should complement medical treatment rather than replace it.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the February 2010 issue of "Pediatric Allergy Immunology" found that dietary intake of vitamin C seemed to have a protective effect on the incidence of wheeze in pre-school children with asthma. However, an article published in the "Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews" in January 2009, argues that there is insufficient evidence to recommend a role for vitamin C in the treatment of asthma. Vitamin C is found in a number of foods including citrus fruits, strawberries and potatoes. You can also take this vitamin as a dietary supplement.
Vitamin D
An article published in the November 2010 issue of "Current Asthma and Allergy Reports" notes that there is increasing evidence linking vitamin D insufficiency with respiratory problems. Lead author, Emma Chambers from the Asthma UK Center, adds that vitamin D may be inhibit inappropriate immune responses to allergens. Vitamin D can be found in a host of foods including dairy products, fatty fish and fortified cereals. It is also available as a dietary supplement. Talk to your doctor before taking supplemental vitamin D as high doses may cause hypercalcemia.
Choline
Although not technically a vitamin, choline is often included in B vitamin supplements and may help reduce both the number and severity of asthma attacks, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, UMMC adds that more research is needed to confirm this. You can get choline by taking a vitamin B complex. However, it is also found in a number of foods including peanuts, liver, milk and chocolate.
