We have stopped counting the countless benefits of Omega 3. We already knew that they were effective in combating seasonal depression and postpartum depression, to ward off sleep disturbances, to protect our heart and our joints, to prevent certain cancers … Now, according to a new study from the University of Rochester Medical Center (in the United States), omega-3s would also be useful in reducing the frequency and intensity of seizures. ‘asthma.
American researchers worked with blood samples provided by 17 asthma patients. Through various experiments, they discovered that a regular supply of omega-3 decreased the production of certain antibodies (immunoglobulins E or IgE). These are partly responsible for allergies, since they cause hypersensitivity to certain allergens – pollens, peanuts, seafood … We speak of serious allergic reactions.
Corticosteroids “block” the action of omega-3s
However, in 80% of cases in children and in 60% of cases in adults, asthma is allergic in nature. “For these people, omega-3 supplementation (via dietary supplements based on fish oil, for example) may be interesting”, explains Richard P. Phipps, main author of this work, published in the specialized journal JCI Insight.
Problem: Researchers also found that in people with asthma who received maintenance therapy with corticosteroids, the benefits of omega-3s were significantly reduced. Anti-inflammatory, corticosteroids are most often used in inhaled form: they reduce the sensitivity of the bronchi to irritants, which (in theory) reduces the number and intensity of asthma attacks.
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