Children who eat a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fish have a lower risk of asthma, scientists said.

By studying data from 50,000 children aged eight to 12 from 20 countries, collected between 1995 and 2005, researchers in Germany, Spain and England found that kids who ate a diet rich in fruits had a low rate of wheeze.

The benefic effects of a mediterranean-style eating may be linked to the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables and to the omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fish, which have anti-inflammatory properties. The study adds to an existing body of evidence showing the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet, including reduced risks of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and depression.

By Tiziana L
Sighted www.health.gather.com, 14 July 2010