A Mediterranean diet– well known to protect your heart and decrease cancer risk– might just also improve your asthma. While there is no one Mediterranean diet, it can be thought of as a ‘cocktail’ containing the following key components:

• Generous amounts of fruits and vegetables
• Healthy fats such as olive oil
• Non-salt flavorings such as herbs and spices
• Red wine in moderation
• Less red meat consumption
• Eating fish or shellfish several times per week
• Daily exercise

Mediterranean diets may decrease allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms according to a research study that found over a 1 year period children taking in more vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish and cereals and less dairy products, meat, junk food and fat had less asthma and wheezing symptoms , as well as allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing and itchy-watery eyes. Overall risk for developing asthma or allergic rhinitis was not altered.

A Mediterranean diet may not only be good for your heart, but may also be good for your lungs.