The latest information from research carried out by universities and hospitals around the world indicates that how well you eat and how well you breathe are definitely related.

While current reports show that the percentage of Americans with asthma has risen by about sixty percent over the last 25 years, they also indicate that there is a way to lower the number of asthma sufferers. The solution, many experts claim, lies at least partly in a change of diet.

A direct correlation has been determined in the incidence of asthma to overweight and obesity. It has been estimated by the National Jewish Health Center in Denver that those who are overweight are about twice as likely to develop asthmatic symptoms as those who maintain their ideal weight.

A number of studies conducted by researchers in England, Greece, Spain and Portugal have produced similar findings on the subject of diet and asthmatic tendencies. Overall, the consensus seems to be that a diet along the lines of what is commonly known as the Mediterranean Diet is one good way to prevent or reduce asthma in adults and children.

The basics of the Mediterranean Diet are fish, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans and olive oil as opposed to other cooking oils. These are, of course, basics of any healthy diet.

However, the Mediterranean life style is also a part of this approach, as it involves the freshest of fruits and vegetables and a minimal amount of pre-packaged food products. In addition, there is generally a lot more physical activity on a daily basis than most Americans undertake.

Ongoing research continues to find additional benefits in the use of olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fat and works as an anti-inflammatory agent. Another such agent is the omega-3 fatty acid found in cold-water fish. Among other studies, those at Harvard Medical School reported a significantly lower percentage of asthma symptoms in adults whose diets included at least five grams a day of fish oil.

Much of the research documented indicates that the polyunsaturated fats in cooking oils such as corn, safflower and sunflower are among the causes of inflammation leading to asthma attacks. These ingredients are also found in meat and processed foods, and should be avoided whenever possible.

The facts are not all in, but it seems clear at this time that the fiber, minerals and vitamins contributed by fresh produce and whole grains are strong contributors to good health in general. Specifically, omega-3 fatty acids in fish, avocados and olive oil reduce inflammation and help prevent many chronic diseases, including asthma.

Studies of the Mediterranean diet and life style over the past 50 years suggest one unarguable conclusion: the combination of fresh, unprocessed foods and regular physical exercise can prevent many of the ills to which Americans in particular are subject. If you can change a few bad habits, you can look and feel like a whole new man or woman.

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