An earlier study published in Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (August 2018) looked at children from a vitamin D trial and their omega-3 status at age 3.
Key Findings:
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Children with higher omega-3 levels were less likely to have asthma or recurrent wheeze
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Omega-3 levels (from blood and dietary intake) were associated with lower allergy markers (IgE)
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The benefits were strongest in children with higher vitamin D levels at birth, indicating a synergistic effect between vitamin D and omega-3s
Diet, Omega-3s, and Indoor Air Pollution
A six-month study by Johns Hopkins researchers published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine examined 135 children in Baltimore.
What They Found:
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Higher omega-3 intake was linked to fewer asthma symptoms triggered by indoor air pollution
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High omega-6 intake (from corn and soybean oil) was associated with worse symptoms and increased inflammation
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A Western diet, high in saturated fats and sugar, may contribute to asthma severity
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A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, may offer protective benefits
“Improving both diet and air quality may offer the greatest health gains in underserved communities,” said lead researcher Dr. Emily Brigham.
Omega-3 Supplements: Not Always Effective in Every Case
Not all studies found a positive impact of omega-3s on asthma. One 2022 study in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society assessed high-dose fish oil supplementation in overweight and obese teens and young adults (ages 12–25) with poorly controlled asthma.
Study Design:
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Participants took 4 grams of fish oil daily (3.18 g EPA + DHA) for 6 months
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Compared against a soy oil placebo
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No significant difference found in asthma control, lung function, or exacerbations
Possible Explanations:
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Obesity-related inflammation may affect omega-3 effectiveness
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Genetic variants, such as in the ALOX5 gene, may influence individual response
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Researchers suggest larger or longer trials may still show benefits in other populations
“For now, there is insufficient evidence to recommend high-dose fish oil for asthma control in obese adolescents,” said lead author Dr. Lang from Duke University.
Final Thoughts: The Role of Omega-3s in Asthma Management
While not a cure, omega-3 fatty acids—particularly EPA and DHA—appear to offer meaningful support for:
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Improving asthma control
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Lowering ICS medication use
Aiming for an Omega-3 Index of 8% or higher may be a valuable target for individuals with asthma. Whether through dietary sources like fatty fish or high-quality supplements, boosting omega-3 intake could be a cost-effective way to support respiratory health.
