Mediterranean diet during childhood may protect against asthma

According to some recent studies, Mediterranean diet seems to be the "miracle cure" which can decrease the cardiovascular risk and even prolong life.

This latest research published in Thorax was done in rural Crete and included a survey of 690 children between the ages of 7 and 18 years. Parents completed questionnaires on their children's respiratory and allergic symptoms and diets. According to researchers, intake of grapes, oranges, apples, and fresh tomatoes protected against wheeze and nasal allergies. High consumption of nuts was inversely associated with wheezing, whereas margarine increased the risk of both wheeze and allergic rhinitis.

References:

Protective effect of fruits, vegetables and the Mediterranean diet on asthma and allergies among children in Crete. Thorax. 5 April 2007. doi:10.1136/thx.2006.069419.
Mediterranean Diet Linked to Lower Pediatric Atopy. MedPageToday.com.
Mediterranean Diet May Protect Against Childhood Asthma-Like Symptoms and Rhinitis. Medscape.com.
Mediterranean Diet Seems to Improve Cardiovascular Risk Factors After Just 3 Months
Mediterranean Diet Protects Against Allergies & Asthma. achoo! Blog.