Low Dietary Intakes of Vitamins A and C Linked to Asthma

	Low Dietary Intakes of Vitamins A and C Linked to Asthma
Keywords:	ASTHMA, WHEEZE - Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C
Reference:	“Association between antioxidant vitamins and asthma outcome measures: systematic review and meta-analysis,” Allen S, Britton JR, et al, Thorax, 2009; 64(7): 610-9. (Address: Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK).
Summary:	In a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies examining the impact of dietary intakes of vitamins A, C, and E on occurrence of asthma, the authors conclude that significantly low levels of vitamins A and C are associated with an increased occurrence of asthma, while levels of vitamin E do not appear to have such an effect. Forty studies were included in the analysis. The data from the studies was pooled and results showed that people with asthma had significantly lower intakes of vitamin A as compared to people without asthma, and people with severe asthma had significantly lower levels than those with mild asthma. Lower dietary intake of vitamin C and lower serum vitamin C levels were also associated with an increased odds of asthma. Vitamin E levels were significantly lower in patients with severe asthma, as compared to mild asthma. The authors conclude, “Relatively low dietary intakes of vitamins A and C are associated with statistically significant increa sed odds of asthma and wheeze.”