Pediatricians report seeing many more asthmatic children than they were ten years ago. Some 15 to 17 million Americans now have asthma , which may cause as many as 5,000 deaths this year. Exactly why the incidence as well as the severity of asthma is increasing is the subject of much debate. Environmental and nutritional factors may be increasing people's exposure to pollen, dust mites, chemical fumes, synthetic drugs, and other potential allergens, which in turn can not only trigger individual episodes of asthma but also lead to chronic asthma. Asthma may also be due to infections of the lungs or sinuses, stress and mental tension, hormonal changes, and not having been breastfed.
Doctors prescribe various drugs to treat asthma , with mixed results.
Many of these drugs also cause side effects that can be quite serious, such as suppressed immune function and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Natural remedies can often not only alleviate symptoms with fewer adverse effects, they can strengthen the body and lungs and help make breathing fuller and more energizing. A healthful diet based on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, fish, and other natural foods can have a healing effect on the respiratory system and reduce the risk of asthma . They should also reduce their consumption of highly processed cooking oils and saturated animal fats in favor of foods rich in the omega-3 essential fatty acids , such as flaxseed and various cold water fish. Certain foods such as garlic and onions may contain compounds that can relieve the symptoms of asthma .