The role of vitamins and minerals in the alleviation of asthma symptoms

Abstract

The primary focus in managing asthma is the control of inflammation, as asthma is an inflammatory disease. Because of this chronic airway inflammation, the lungs of asthmatic patients are exposed to oxidative stress due to the generation of reactive oxygen‐ and nitrogen species (ROS and NOS). Oxidative stress therefore plays an important role in asthma. Damage caused by both ROS and NOS can be limited by a range of mineral and vitamin supplements. Antioxidants are therefore important in restoring the disturbed oxidant/antioxidant equilibrium in patients with asthma. Here we discuss a few of the important antioxidants, including the mineral selenium, magnesium, Vitamin A and C as well as glutathione. All of these antioxidants are lower in asthmatics than in people without asthma. We therefore conclude that a holistic approach in the treatment of asthma should be followed, where traditional asthma medication e.g. corticosteroids should be given as well as supplementation with antioxidants.

Keywords:

• asthma
• ROS
• NOS
• antioxidants
• vitamins
• minerals