Study Warns Fat-Rich Diets Could Fuel Childhood Asthma Epidemic

A major study has warned that high-fat diets may be contributing to the growing prevalence of asthma among children.

The study, involving 2,428 children aged 6 to 16 in India, discovered that asthmatic children had higher intake of fatty foods than their healthy counterparts. Researchers say saturated and trans fats reduce immunity and cause inflammation, directly harming airways.

Highlighting the risks, experts linked the Western diet’s heavy reliance on fried, processed, and fast foods to rising asthma cases and obesity. Both conditions, they said, are closely connected and create long-term health complications.

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The imbalance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, often found in unhealthy diets, was also identified as a significant factor. Researchers emphasised that this imbalance disrupts immune responses and worsens inflammation.

To counter these risks, health experts recommend shifting children’s diets toward fresh produce, whole grains, fish, seeds, and nuts. These foods reduce inflammation, improve immunity, and promote respiratory health.

With childhood asthma cases increasing worldwide, researchers argue that better dietary habits could serve as a cost-effective prevention strategy. They stressed that public awareness campaigns on nutrition are just as vital as medical interventions in tackling asthma.