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Fruit and vegetable consumption in relation to allergy: disease-related modification of consumption? J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 127:1219-25. [PMID: 21215999 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2010.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2010] [Revised: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 11/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous largely cross-sectional studies suggest that fruit and vegetable consumption reduces the risk of allergic disease in children, but results are conflicting. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between current fruit or vegetable intake and allergic disease in 8-year-old Swedish children, and to evaluate the potential effect of disease-related modification of consumption. METHODS Cross-sectional data were obtained from a Swedish birth cohort study. Information on fruit and vegetable consumption as well as symptoms and diagnoses of allergic diseases was obtained by parental questionnaires at the 8-year follow-up. Allergen-specific IgE levels against food and inhalant allergens were obtained from blood samples collected at age 8 years. In total, 2447 children were included. Data were analyzed with logistic regression. RESULTS An inverse relation was observed between total fruit consumption and rhinitis (odds ratio, highest vs lowest quartile, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.45-0.86; P for trend, .002), whereas no association was observed for total vegetable intake. In analyses of individual foods, intake of apples/pears and carrots was inversely associated with rhinitis, asthma, and atopic sensitization. Fifty percent of the children with rhinitis were sensitized against birch pollen, which may cross-react with apples and carrots. After exclusion of children who reported food-related allergic symptoms, most of the observed inverse associations moved toward the null and became nonsignificant. CONCLUSION We confirm the inverse associations between fruit intake and allergic disease in children observed in earlier studies. However, our data also indicate that disease-related modification of consumption contributed to this association.
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Gonzalez Barcala FJ, Pertega S, Bamonde L, Garnelo L, Perez Castro T, Sampedro M, Sanchez Lastres J, San Jose Gonzalez MA, Lopez Silvarrey A. Mediterranean diet and asthma in Spanish schoolchildren. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010; 21:1021-7. [PMID: 20561232 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2010.01080.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
There is still debate on the effect of dietetic factors on the prevalence or severity of asthma, as well as the interaction with other factors. We have analysed the prevalence and severity of asthma according to adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), its association with obesity and family life style. We performed a cross-sectional study on 14,700 children and adolescents in six health areas in our region. We used the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire to collect asthma symptoms, dietary habits, anthropometric parameters, parental smoking habits and maternal education level. The diet pattern was analysed using a Mediterranean Diet Score. In the logistic regression we analysed the influence of adhering to the MD on the prevalence and severity of asthma, adjusted for the other parameters included. Greater adherence to the MD is associated with a higher risk of severe asthma (odds ratios = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.21-4.22) in girls of 6-7 yr. There was no significant relationship for the other asthma categories in the population studied. The results of our study do not support a protective effect of the MD on the prevalence or severity of asthma.
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The effect of prenatal and postnatal dietary exposures on childhood development of atopic disease. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 10:139-44. [PMID: 20164763 DOI: 10.1097/aci.0b013e32833667a8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Prenatal and early life dietary factors may influence asthma and allergic disease development. We review recent studies and consensus statements regarding the effects of prenatal/early life dietary exposures on atopic disease. RECENT FINDINGS The American Academy of Pediatrics consensus statement highlighted the inadequacy of evidence for pregnancy antigen avoidance diets or delay of infant complementary foods beyond 4-6 months. Recent studies raise the question of whether early food introduction may promote tolerance, though controlled trials are pending. A recent meta-analysis suggested that antioxidants may protect against the development of atopy. Furthermore, some of the conflicting results on the effects of vitamin E may be related to variability in the isoforms prevalent in local diet. Recent studies of vitamin D similarly suggest that it may be protective, though this remains controversial. Finally, prenatal methyl donor exposure promoted the development of allergy in an animal model. SUMMARY There are conflicting data on the effects of most prenatal and early childhood dietary exposures on childhood atopic disease. Longitudinal prenatal/birth cohort studies with prospective measurements and clinical supplementation trials of promising dietary factors will be needed to make reliable recommendations in this vulnerable population of pregnant women and their infants.
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Maternal dietary pattern during pregnancy is not associated with recurrent wheeze in children. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 126:250-5, 255.e1-4. [PMID: 20584543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2010.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2009] [Revised: 04/30/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rise in asthma prevalence over the last few decades may be a result of changes in prenatal or early-life environment, including maternal diet during pregnancy. Previous studies have found associations between individual foods or nutrients consumed during pregnancy and asthma or wheeze in children, but these may be confounded by overall dietary pattern. OBJECTIVE To determine whether overall maternal dietary pattern during pregnancy is associated with recurrent wheeze in children. METHODS A total of 1376 mother-infant pairs from Project Viva, a longitudinal prebirth cohort, who had responses for food frequency questionnaires in the first and second trimester and outcome data at 3 years of age were included. Multivariable logistic regression was used to look at associations between dietary pattern and the primary outcome of recurrent wheeze at 3 years. Overall dietary pattern was examined by using Mediterranean diet score, Alternate Healthy Eating Index modified for pregnancy (AHEI-P), and principal components analysis to look at Western and Prudent diets. RESULTS None of these dietary patterns was associated with the primary outcome of recurrent wheeze in children in either the crude or the multivariable model (multivariable model, odds ratio per 1-point increase in Mediterranean diet, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.89-1.08]; AHEI-P, 1.07 [0.87-1.30]; Prudent, 1.02 [0.83-1.26]; Western, 0.98 [0.81-1.19]). CONCLUSION Overall dietary pattern during pregnancy is not associated with recurrent wheeze in this cohort. Maternal intake of individual nutrients may be more important determinants of offspring wheeze-associated illness than is dietary pattern.
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Castro-Rodriguez JA, Garcia-Marcos L, Sanchez-Solis M, Pérez-Fernández V, Martinez-Torres A, Mallol J. Olive oil during pregnancy is associated with reduced wheezing during the first year of life of the offspring. Pediatr Pulmonol 2010; 45:395-402. [PMID: 20306538 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.21205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that consuming Mediterranean diet and using olive oil for cooking/dressing salads during pregnancy might be associated with less wheezing during the first year of the offspring's life. METHODS A study was conducted in 1,409 infants (mean age, 16.6 +/- 2.5 months) attending healthy infant clinics in Spain. Dietary data of mothers' intake during pregnancy was collected by means of a parental food frequency questionnaire. Demographic information and data on wheezing during the first year of the offspring's life were also recorded. Infants were stratified according to any wheezing (42.2%) during the first year of life. RESULTS In the univariate analysis, adherence to a Mediterranean diet and using olive oil for cooking/dressing salads during pregnancy were both significantly associated with less wheezing during the first year of life. However, after multivariate analysis, only olive oil consumption during pregnancy remained associated with less wheezing in the studied period (aOR = 0.57 [95% CI = 0.4-0.9]); whereas male gender (1.8 [1.4-2.3]), day care attendance (2.15 [1.5-3.1]), maternal asthma (2.16 [1.3-3.6]), maternal smoking during pregnancy (1.83 [1.3-2.2]), infant eczema (1.95 [1.3-2.9]), and mould stains on the household walls (1.72 [1.2-2.5]) remained associated with wheezing. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest a protective effect (primary prevention) of olive oil use during pregnancy on wheezing during the first year of the offspring's life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose A Castro-Rodriguez
- Department of Pediatrics and Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Lazarou C, Panagiotakos DB, Matalas AL. Physical activity mediates the protective effect of the Mediterranean diet on children's obesity status: The CYKIDS study. Nutrition 2010; 26:61-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2009.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2008] [Revised: 01/12/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Romieu I, Barraza-Villarreal A, Escamilla-Núñez C, Texcalac-Sangrador JL, Hernandez-Cadena L, Díaz-Sánchez D, De Batlle J, Del Rio-Navarro BE. Dietary intake, lung function and airway inflammation in Mexico City school children exposed to air pollutants. Respir Res 2009; 10:122. [PMID: 20003306 PMCID: PMC2806363 DOI: 10.1186/1465-9921-10-122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Accepted: 12/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Air pollutant exposure has been associated with an increase in inflammatory markers and a decline in lung function in asthmatic children. Several studies suggest that dietary intake of fruits and vegetables might modify the adverse effect of air pollutants. METHODS A total of 158 asthmatic children recruited at the Children's Hospital of Mexico and 50 non-asthmatic children were followed for 22 weeks. Pulmonary function was measured and nasal lavage collected and analyzed every 2 weeks. Dietary intake was evaluated using a 108-item food frequency questionnaire and a fruit and vegetable index (FVI) and a Mediterranean diet index (MDI) were constructed. The impact of these indices on lung function and interleukin-8 (IL-8) and their interaction with air pollutants were determined using mixed regression models with random intercept and random slope. RESULTS FVI was inversely related to IL-8 levels in nasal lavage (p < 0.02) with a significant inverse trend (test for trend p < 0.001), MDI was positively related to lung function (p < 0.05), and children in the highest category of MDI had a higher FEV1 (test for trend p < 0.12) and FVC (test for trend p < 0.06) than children in the lowest category. A significant interaction was observed between FVI and ozone for FEV1 and FVC as was with MDI and ozone for FVC. No effect of diet was observed among healthy children. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that fruit and vegetable intake and close adherence to the Mediterranean diet have a beneficial effect on inflammatory response and lung function in asthmatic children living in Mexico City.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - David Díaz-Sánchez
- Human Studies Division, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jordi De Batlle
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
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Dietary patterns and risk of asthma: results from three countries in European Community Respiratory Health Survey-II. Br J Nutr 2009; 103:1354-65. [PMID: 19995472 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114509993266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Dietary patterns offer an alternative to the analysis of individual foods or nutrients in nutritional epidemiological studies. The aim of the present study was to identify dietary patterns common to different European countries and examine their associations with asthma. In five study centres (two in Germany, two in the UK and one in Norway), 1174 adults aged 29-55 years completed a FFQ and respiratory symptoms questionnaire. A meta-analytic approach was used to identify the dietary patterns and analyse them in relation to current asthma, asthma symptoms and bronchial responsiveness (BHR). Two patterns emerged, generally correlating with the same foods at different centres: one associated with intake of meats and potatoes; the other with fish, fruits and vegetables. There was no evidence that the fish, fruits and vegetables pattern was associated with asthma (OR 1.11 (95 % CI 0.93, 1.33)), symptom score (ratio of means 1.07 (0.98, 1.17)) or BHR (regression coefficient - 0.01 ( - 0.12, 0.10)), though these CI appeared to rule out large protective effects of consuming these foods. There was no overall evidence that the meat and potato pattern was associated with asthma (OR 1.02 (0.79, 1.31)), symptom score (ratio of means 1.07 (0.84, 1.36)) or BHR (regression coefficient - 0.08 ( - 0.27, 0.10)), but there was heterogeneity between centres in the association with symptom score: a negative association at the two German centres; a positive association at the others. Heterogeneity in a multi-centre observational study of diet could suggest alternative explanations for apparent effects of diet, such as uncontrolled confounding.
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Abstract
Complementary and alternative medicine is used commonly for respiratory diseases. This review summarizes data that identify potential links between dietary intake and asthma, and results of interventional trials of herbal substances for the treatment of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and acute bronchitis.
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110
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Patel S, Murray CS, Woodcock A, Simpson A, Custovic A. Dietary antioxidant intake, allergic sensitization and allergic diseases in young children. Allergy 2009; 64:1766-72. [PMID: 19796219 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2009.02099.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic diseases have risen in prevalence over recent decades. The aetiology remains unclear but is likely to be a result of changing lifestyle and/or environment. A reduction in antioxidant intake, consequent to reduced intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, has been suggested as a possible cause. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether dietary antioxidant intake at age 5 was related to atopy at 5 and 8 years of age amongst children in an unselected birth cohort. METHODS Children were followed from birth. Parents completed a validated respiratory questionnaire and children were skin prick tested at 5 and 8 years of age. Serum IgE levels were measured at age 5. At age 5, antioxidant intake was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). A nutrient analysis program computed nutrient intake, and frequency counts of foods high in the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E were assessed. RESULTS Eight hundred and sixty-one children completed both the respiratory and FFQ. Beta-carotene intake was associated with reduced risk of allergic sensitization at age 5 [0.80 (0.68-0.93)] and 8 [0.81 (0.70-0.94)]. In addition, beta-carotene intake was negatively associated with total IgE levels (P = 0.002). Vitamin E intake was associated with an increased risk of allergic sensitization [1.19 (1.02-1.39)], only at age 5. There was no association between antioxidant intakes and wheeze or eczema. CONCLUSION Increased beta-carotene intake was associated with a reduced risk of allergic sensitization and lower IgE levels, in 5- and 8-year-old children. Dietary antioxidants may play a role in the development of allergic sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Patel
- School of Translational Medicine, University of Manchester and NIHR Translational Research Facility in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Allan K, Kelly FJ, Devereux G. Antioxidants and allergic disease: a case of too little or too much? Clin Exp Allergy 2009; 40:370-80. [PMID: 19968654 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2009.03413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Speculation persists as to the possible role, if any, of dietary antioxidants in allergic disease. While it has been hypothesized that the recent increase in allergic disease is a consequence of declining dietary antioxidant intake, an alternative hypothesis proposes that the increase in allergic disease is due to increasing antioxidant intake. Dietary trends are conflicting; the intake of some antioxidants has declined, for others intakes are likely to have increased. Animal model studies demonstrate that antioxidant supplementation at the time of primary and subsequent allergen exposure attenuates allergic inflammatory responses. The data from human studies are less clear. Observational epidemiological studies of humans are beset by several methodological limitations associated with the assessment of diet and predominantly focus on asthma. Most observational studies report potentially beneficial associations between dietary antioxidants and allergic outcomes, but a small minority report potentially adverse associations. Human intervention studies suggest that single antioxidant supplements confer minimal, if any clinical benefit in adults with asthma, however, there is still scope for studies in children, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis (AR) and of antioxidant combinations. More recently, it has been suggested that dietary antioxidants in the developmental context of fetal and infant development influence the development childhood asthma and atopic sensitization possibly by affecting the first interactions between the neonatal immune system and allergens. While a small number of birth cohort studies have reported potentially beneficial associations between maternal intake of some antioxidants during pregnancy and childhood asthma, there is very limited data suggesting associations between maternal antioxidant intake and childhood atopic dermatitis and AR. The available epidemiological, animal, molecular and immunological data suggest that there are associations between antioxidants and asthma and to a much lesser extent, atopic dermatitis and AR. However, the exact nature of the relationships and the potential for therapeutic intervention remain unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Allan
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Hazbun OM, Azcona C, Alfredo Martínez J, Martí A. Management of overweight and obesity in adolescents: an integral lifestyle approach. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1138-0322(09)73427-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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113
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Prenatal and childhood Mediterranean diet and the development of asthma and allergies in children. Public Health Nutr 2009; 12:1629-34. [DOI: 10.1017/s1368980009990474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractObjectiveTo discuss current evidence about the relation between prenatal and childhood Mediterranean diet, and the development of asthma and allergies in children.DesignReview of the literature.Setting and resultsFour recent studies conducted in Mediterranean countries (Spain, Greece) and one conducted in Mexico evaluated the association between childhood Mediterranean diet and asthma outcomes in children. All of the studies reported beneficial associations between a high level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet during childhood and symptoms of asthma or allergic rhinitis. Individual foods or food groups contributing to the protective effect of Mediterranean diet included fish, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and cereals, while detrimental components included red meat, margarine and junk food intake.Two studies focused on prenatal Mediterranean diet: the first is a birth cohort in Spain that showed a protective effect of a high adherence to the Mediterranean diet during pregnancy on persistent wheeze, atopic wheeze and atopy at the age of 6·5 years; while the second is a cross-sectional study in Mexico, collecting information more than 6 years after pregnancy, that showed no associations between maternal Mediterranean diet during pregnancy and allergic symptoms in childhood except for current sneezing.ConclusionsFindings from recent studies suggest that a high level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet early in life protects against the development of asthma and atopy in children. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of this protective effect, to evaluate the most relevant window of exposure, and to address specific components of diet in relation to disease.
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114
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Kim JH, Ellwood PE, Asher MI. Diet and asthma: looking back, moving forward. Respir Res 2009; 10:49. [PMID: 19519921 PMCID: PMC2703624 DOI: 10.1186/1465-9921-10-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2009] [Accepted: 06/12/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is an increasing global health burden, especially in the western world. Public health interventions are sought to lessen its prevalence or severity, and diet and nutrition have been identified as potential factors. With rapid changes in diet being one of the hallmarks of westernization, nutrition may play a key role in affecting the complex genetics and developmental pathophysiology of asthma. The present review investigates hypotheses about hygiene, antioxidants, lipids and other nutrients, food types and dietary patterns, breastfeeding, probiotics and intestinal microbiota, vitamin D, maternal diet, and genetics. Early hypotheses analyzed population level trends and focused on major dietary factors such as antioxidants and lipids. More recently, larger dietary patterns beyond individual nutrients have been investigated such as obesity, fast foods, and the Mediterranean diet. Despite some promising hypotheses and findings, there has been no conclusive evidence about the role of specific nutrients, food types, or dietary patterns past early childhood on asthma prevalence. However, diet has been linked to the development of the fetus and child. Breastfeeding provides immunological protection when the infant's immune system is immature and a modest protective effect against wheeze in early childhood. Moreover, maternal diet may be a significant factor in the development of the fetal airway and immune system. As asthma is a complex disease of gene-environment interactions, maternal diet may play an epigenetic role in sensitizing fetal airways to respond abnormally to environmental insults. Recent hypotheses show promise in a biological approach in which the effects of dietary factors on individual physiology and immunology are analyzed before expansion into larger population studies. Thus, collaboration is required by various groups in studying this enigma from epidemiologists to geneticists to immunologists. It is now apparent that this multidisciplinary approach is required to move forward and understand the complexity of the interaction of dietary factors and asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- June-Ho Kim
- Department of Cancer Immunology & AIDS, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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115
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Influence of physical activity and television-watching time on asthma and allergic rhinitis among young adolescents: preventive or aggravating? Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2009; 36:247-53. [PMID: 19080795 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0546(08)75218-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Related to exercise hypothesis, the aim of the present study was to explore the influence of physical activity on asthma and allergic rhinitis in a developing country where publicity campaigns about the benefits of exercise are scarce. METHODS The analysed data were self-reported and obtained through the standardized International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood Phase Three written questionnaires completed by 3026 adolescents 13/14 year old in Skopje (Republic of Macedonia). Vigorous physical activity and television-watching timeboth unadjusted and adjusted for confounding factorswere used as variables for analysis. Odds ratios (OR, 95 % CI) in binary logistic regression were employed for statistic analysis of the data. RESULTS Vigorous physical activity both > or = 3 times and 1-2 times per week was associated with an increased risk of current wheeze (aOR: 1.66; 1.08-2.55; p = 0.020 and aOR: 1.70; 1.23-2.36; p = 0.001, respectively), speech-limiting wheeze (aOR: 3.15; 1.13-8.77; p = 0.028 and aOR: 4.62; 2.22-9.62; p = 0.000, respectively) and exercise-induced wheeze (aOR: 2.72; 1.93-3.83; p = 0.000 and aOR: 4.01; 3.12-5.14; p = 0.000, respectively). Frequent physical activity was positively associated only with current allergic rhinitis symptoms (aOR: 1.40; 1.04-1.90; p = 0.029). Television watching > or = 3 hours a day increased the risk of current wheeze (aOR: 1.34; 1.01-1.77; p = 0.042) and exercise-induced wheeze (aOR: 1.32; 1.05-1.65; p = 0.016). CONCLUSION The findings support the aggravating role of sedentary regimen and poor physical fitness on asthma symptoms, but not on allergic rhinitis. Physical activity may trigger asthma symptoms when physical fitness is poor and asthma is not controlled.
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116
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Castro-Rodriguez J, Garcia-Marcos L. Wheezing and Asthma in childhood: an epidemiology approach. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2009; 36:280-90. [PMID: 19080801 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0546(08)75224-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Wheezing/asthma in children is a complex problem due to its heterogeneous condition, with different pathogenic mechanisms, variations in duration and in severity; that make it difficult to totally understand. This relation between wheezing in infants and later development of asthma will be the result of alterations in the immune system maturation and congenital or acquired modifications of the airway. Several longitudinal studies have given us important information about the different phenotypes of wheezing/asthma that coexist in children. In this review, we analyse the recent potential mechanisms and risk factors for each of the three classic wheezing phenotypes presenting in children: transient, non-atopic and atopic; and we propose for consideration a fourth phenotype: overweight/obese girls with early menarche. A better understanding of those risk factors would be useful for the development of new strategies in wheezing/asthma management.
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Bacopoulou F, Veltsista A, Vassi I, Gika A, Lekea V, Priftis K, Bakoula C. Can we be optimistic about asthma in childhood? A Greek cohort study. J Asthma 2009; 46:171-4. [PMID: 19253125 DOI: 10.1080/02770900802553128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the prevalence and natural course of asthma from childhood to adolescence in a population-based, Greek birth cohort and to identify associated factors. METHODS Longitudinal information on asthma symptoms, physician diagnosed and treated, was available for 2133 children at 7 and 18 years of age. RESULTS The prevalence of current asthma was 9.0% and 5.0% at 7 and 18 years, respectively. The prevalence of lifetime asthma was 26.3% at 18 years. More than half of the children (58.2%) with early onset asthma were asymptomatic at 7 years and only 7.6% continued to have symptoms during adolescence. However, in 48.2% of those with late onset asthma, symptoms persisted up to 18 years. Logistic regression analyses showed that male gender, family history of atopy, active adolescent smoking and maternal smoking were significantly positively associated with lifetime asthma at 18 years. In addition, smoking during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk for persistence of asthma symptoms at 18 years. Asthma during childhood and active adolescent smoking were positively associated, and daily consumption of fruit and vegetables was negatively associated with current asthma at 18 years of age. Finally, children who were breastfed had a lower risk for lifetime asthma at 7 years. CONCLUSION The prevalence of asthma symptoms at 7 and 18 years of age was low throughout Greece. Our results suggest that, among others, nutrition is an important correlate of asthma in Greek children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Bacopoulou
- 1st Department of Paediatrics, University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
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118
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Mai XM, Becker AB, Liem JJ, Kozyrskyj AL. Fast food consumption counters the protective effect of breastfeeding on asthma in children? Clin Exp Allergy 2009; 39:556-61. [PMID: 19159404 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2008.03169.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fast food consumption and childhood asthma have rapidly increased in recent decades. During the same period there has been an increased rate of prolonged breastfeeding. OBJECTIVE To evaluate if fast food consumption was associated with asthma in children, and if the proposed protective effect of breastfeeding on asthma was altered by fast food consumption. METHODS This case-control study included 246 children with allergist-diagnosed asthma and 477 non-asthmatic controls at age 8-10 years. Information on fast food consumption and exclusive breastfeeding was obtained from questionnaire data. The association between asthma and fast food consumption was evaluated. Asthma in relation to exclusive breastfeeding was also evaluated, taking into account fast food consumption as a modifying factor. RESULTS Children with asthma were more likely to consume fast food than children without asthma [crude odds ratio (OR) 1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23-2.34]. In comparison to prolonged exclusive breastfeeding (> or =12 weeks), asthma was positively associated with short-term exclusive breastfeeding (<12 weeks) in children who never or occasionally consumed fast food (crude OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.09-3.11), but not in children who frequently consumed fast food (crude OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.72-1.61). The P-value for this interaction (0.109) was borderline. Children with high fast food consumption who were exclusively breastfed <12 weeks as infants, had greater than a twofold risk of asthma compared with infants who had been exclusively breastfed for a longer time period and who did not become high consumers of fast food in later childhood. These findings were not affected after final adjustment of confounders and covariates. CONCLUSION Fast food consumption is associated with asthma in children and potentially counteracts the protective effect of prolonged breastfeeding on asthma. This may explain the paradoxical phenomenon of parallel increased rates of prolonged breastfeeding and asthma in children. 556-561.
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Affiliation(s)
- X-M Mai
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health and Manitoba Institute of Child Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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119
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Abstract
In recent decades, the prevalence of atopic diseases such as asthma, hayfever, food allergy, and atopic dermatitis has been steadily increasing. Unfortunately, more advances have been made in secondary prevention of symptoms and exacerbations than in primary prevention. One barrier to adopting prevention strategies is uncertainty regarding the cause of atopy. A genetic predisposition has been well documented. However, other factors, including diet, environment, infections, medications, and gastrointestinal flora, all play a role in the development of atopic disease. Modifying these factors holds promise for stopping the atopic march in the future. This paper reviews advances that have been made in the primary prevention of atopic disease.
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de Batlle J, Garcia-Aymerich J, Barraza-Villarreal A, Antó JM, Romieu I. Mediterranean diet is associated with reduced asthma and rhinitis in Mexican children. Allergy 2008; 63:1310-6. [PMID: 18782109 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2008.01722.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diet during pregnancy and childhood has been suggested to play an important role in children's asthma risk. We assessed whether the adherence to a Mediterranean dietary pattern, for children in the last 12 months and their mothers during pregnancy, was associated with both childhood asthma and allergic rhinitis. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2004 using a random sample of 1476 children (6- to 7-year old) from the Mexicali region, Mexico. Dietary data of children's intake in the last 12 months and their mothers' intake during pregnancy was collected, through a parental food frequency questionnaire. A Mediterranean diet score was computed [Trichopoulou et al., N Engl J Med 348 (2003), 2599]. Data on seven asthma and rhinitis-related outcomes were obtained from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire. RESULTS Adherence to a Mediterranean dietary pattern was inversely associated with asthma ever (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.40-0.91), wheezing ever (0.64, 0.47-0.87), rhinitis ever (0.41, 0.22-0.77), sneezing ever (0.79, 0.59-1.07), current sneezing (0.71, 0.52-0.96) and current itchy-watery eyes (0.63, 0.42-0.95). No associations were found using the mothers' pregnancy diet score, except for current sneezing (0.71, 0.53-0.97). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest a protective effect of following a healthy dietary pattern on asthma and allergic rhinitis in Mexican children.
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Affiliation(s)
- J de Batlle
- Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain
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Level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet among children from Cyprus: the CYKIDS study. Public Health Nutr 2008; 12:991-1000. [PMID: 18752695 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980008003431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Mediterranean diet (MD) prototype is widely used as an educational tool in public health programmes; few studies, however, have been conducted on the adherence of children to this diet. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the quality of Cypriot children's diet by assessing the degree of adherence to the MD. METHODS A national cross-sectional study among 1140 children (mean age = 10.7 (SD 0.98) years), using stratified multistage sampling design, was conducted in primary schools of Cyprus. Dietary assessment was based on a 154-item semi-quantitative FFQ and the two supplementary questionnaires (a Food Groups Frequency Questionnaire and a Short Eating Habits Questionnaire). Adherence to the MD was assessed by the KIDMED index. The association between the frequencies of consumption of various food groups and the level of adherence to the MD (poor v. average v. good KIDMED score) was also evaluated. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to adjust for potential confounders. RESULTS Only 6.7% of the sample was classified as high adherers of MD, whereas 37% had a poor KIDMED score. Multiple logistic regression analysis has shown that children with at least an average KIDMED score were more likely to eat frequently seafood and fish, legumes, nuts, bread, fruits, leafy vegetables, olives, low glycaemic index foods and unrefined foods. Effect size of associations was from medium to high. CONCLUSION Higher adherence to MD is associated with better diet quality in children. The MD prototype may thus represent a useful educational tool for promotion of healthy eating habits in children.
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Sampling and questionnaires. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0546(08)72554-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Barros R, Moreira A, Fonseca J, de Oliveira JF, Delgado L, Castel-Branco MG, Haahtela T, Lopes C, Moreira P. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and fresh fruit intake are associated with improved asthma control. Allergy 2008; 63:917-23. [PMID: 18588559 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2008.01665.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The traditional Mediterranean diet is claimed to possess antioxidant and immune-regulatory properties in several chronic diseases. Typical Mediterranean foods have recently been associated with improvement of symptoms of asthma and rhinitis in children. However the effect of adherence to Mediterranean diet on adult asthma outcomes is unknown. We aimed to investigate the association between adherence to Mediterranean diet and asthma control. METHODS Cross sectional study of 174 asthmatics, mean (SD) age of 40 (15) years. The patients were defined as controlled, in contrast to noncontrolled, if they showed FEV1 >or= 80% of predicted, exhaled nitric oxide (NO) <or=35 ppb, and Asthma Control Questionnaire score <1. Dietary intake was obtained by a food frequency questionnaire, and Mediterranean diet was assessed by alternate Mediterranean Diet (aMED) Score. Logistic regression models adjusting for confounders were performed to estimate the association between Mediterranean diet and asthma control. RESULTS Controlled asthmatics (23%) had significantly higher aMED Score, intake of fresh fruit, and lower intake of ethanol compared to noncontrolled (77%). High adherence to Mediterranean diet reduced 78% the risk of noncontrolled asthma after adjusting for gender, age, education, inhaled corticosteroids and energy intake (OR = 0.22; 95% CI = 0.05-0.85; P-trend = 0.028). The higher intake of fresh fruit decreased the probability of having noncontrolled asthma (OR = 0.29; 95% CI = 0.10-0.83; P-trend = 0.015), while the higher intake of ethanol had the opposite effect (OR = 3.16; 95% CI = 1.10-9.11; P-trend = 0.035). CONCLUSION High adherence to traditional Mediterranean diet increased the likelihood of asthma to be under control in adults. The study introduces a novel link between diet and asthma control, as measured by symptoms, lung function and exhaled NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Barros
- Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal, and Department of Immunoallergology, Hospital of S. João, Porto, Portugal
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Castro-Rodriguez JA, Garcia-Marcos L, Alfonseda Rojas JD, Valverde-Molina J, Sanchez-Solis M. Mediterranean diet as a protective factor for wheezing in preschool children. J Pediatr 2008; 152:823-8, 828.e1-2. [PMID: 18492525 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2008.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2007] [Revised: 11/12/2007] [Accepted: 01/04/2008] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that the Mediterranean diet can be a protective factor for current wheezing in preschoolers. STUDY DESIGN Questionnaires were completed by parents of 1784 preschoolers (mean age, 4.08 +/- 0.8 years). Children were stratified according to whether they experienced wheezing (20.0%) or not in the previous year. A Mediterranean diet score was built according to the intake frequency of several foods. RESULTS Age, birth by cesarean section, low birth weight, exposure to livestock during pregnancy, antibiotic use in the first year of life, acetaminophen consumption in the previous 12 months, rhinoconjunctivitis, eczema, parental asthma and tobacco consumption, maternal educational level, maternal age, physical activity, cat at home, and Mediterranean diet were associated with current wheezing but not with obesity. In the multivariate analysis, eczema, rhinoconjunctivitis, paternal asthma, and acetaminophen consumption remained risk factors for current wheezing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.35 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.2 to 4.8], 2.78 [95% CI =1.3 to 6.1], 3.89 [95% CI = 1.4 to 10.7], and 2.38 [95% CI = 1.2 to 4.6], respectively). Conversely, Mediterranean diet and older age remained protective factors (aOR = 0.54 [95% CI = 0.3 to 0.9] and 0.67 [95% CI = 0.5 to 0.9], respectively). CONCLUSIONS The Mediterranean diet is an independent protective factor for current wheezing in preschoolers, irrespective of obesity and physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Bush
- F.R.C.P., Department of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP, UK.
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Torres-Borrego J, Molina-Terán AB, Montes-Mendoza C. Prevalence and associated factors of allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis in children. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2008; 36:90-100. [PMID: 18479661 DOI: 10.1157/13120394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Allergic disorders are the chronic diseases of greatest pediatric morbidity, affecting over 25 % of the pediatric population. Indeed, this situation has been referred to as an "allergic epidemic". In comparison with asthma, atopic dermatitis and allergic rhinitis have been less extensively investigated, although this does not mean that they should be regarded as minor disorders but rather as alterations that affect the quality of life of the patients and their families, which generate considerable direct and indirect costs. Despite an important research effort, the reason for this allergic epidemic is not well known. These are multifactor disorders without a single causal agent, in which the most important component is the genetic predisposition of the patient (atopy), modulated by environmental factors, exposure to allergens, infections and irritants, among others. A confounding element is the fact that the concept of allergic diseases encompasses phenotypes of rhinitis, atopic dermatitis or asthma in which no IgE-mediated atopic mechanism is demonstrated, and which can manifest in a way similar to true allergic phenotypes. Differentiation between the two is difficult to establish on the basis of self-administered questionnaires alone, in the absence of a precise etiological diagnosis. The present article reviews the numerous factors suggested to be responsible for the increase in allergic diseases recorded in the last few decades, and for the differences in prevalence observed among centres. For most of these factors the results published in the literature are contradictory, in some cases due to a lack of control of the associated interacting or confounding factors. Consensus exists for only some of these causal factors, such as the established parallelism between the increase in allergic diseases and the reduction in infectious processes on one hand, and the increase in particles generated by diesel fuel combustion on the other. In addition, the implicated factors could act differently (and in some cases even antagonically) upon atopy and on the different disease phenotypes, thereby complicating the study of these interactions even further.
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MESH Headings
- Adolescent
- Breast Feeding
- Child
- Child, Preschool
- Communicable Diseases/complications
- Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
- Dermatitis, Atopic/epidemiology
- Dermatitis, Atopic/etiology
- Environmental Exposure/adverse effects
- Female
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Humans
- Immune System Diseases/complications
- Immune System Diseases/epidemiology
- Pregnancy
- Prevalence
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial/epidemiology
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial/etiology
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/epidemiology
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/etiology
- Socioeconomic Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- J Torres-Borrego
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Reina Sofía Children's Hospital, School of Medecine, Córdoba, Spain.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Childhood asthma and obesity are significant public health problems. The prevalence of both disorders has increased considerably in the past decade. This review will highlight recent publications regarding the nature of the relationship between asthma and obesity and the clinical effects of obesity in children with asthma. RECENT FINDINGS Most prospective studies suggest that obesity increases the risk of subsequent asthma. Possible mechanisms for the relationship between asthma and obesity include airway inflammation, mechanical changes associated with obesity, changes in airway hyper-responsiveness, and changes in physical activity and diet. Most studies suggest that obesity increases the clinical severity of asthma and decreases quality of life in children with asthma. More research is required to further define and clarify the relationship between asthma and obesity in children. SUMMARY There are many questions and few answers regarding the relationship between asthma and obesity in children. Additional studies are needed to clarify the relationship between the two epidemics so that effective interventions can be developed to improve the health and lives of children with both asthma and obesity.
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