Mediterranean diet reduces child asthma risk

While it’s not uncommon for children in Crete to have allergies, wheezing and rhinitis (nasal inflammation) are rare.

Research into the diets of 690 children and young adults between 7 and 18 years old in Crete found that a high consumption of fruits, vegetables and nuts – as in a traditional Mediterranean diet – was associated with fewer symptoms of asthma and rhinitis.

The researchers felt the high intake of antioxidants and polyphenols from the fruit, vegetables and nuts they consumed could be the reason for so few symptoms of allergy in the population on Crete.

The main local products – grapes, oranges, apples and fresh tomatoes – were the most commonly consumed fruits and vegetables.

Source: Thorax, published online April 2007