BACKGROUND

Asthma is a chronic illness involving the respiratory system in which the airway occasionally constricts, becomes inflamed, and is lined with excessive amounts of mucus, often in response to one or more triggers. Triggers may include such things as exposure to an environmental stimulant or allergen. Cold air, warm air, moist air, exercise or exertion, or emotional stress may trigger an attack. The airway narrowing causes symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. 

According to research by Dr. Abram Hoffer published in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine, sufferers of asthma appear to have low levels of ascorbate (vitamin C) in their system.  This is especially the case for men and children.

ORTHOMOLECULAR APPROACH

The orthomolecular approach to asthma focuses on nutrient deficiency. Vitamin C, known for reduction of inflammation, is often relied on to treat this illness. However dietary quantities of vitamin C are not sufficient to relieve asthma. 

The orthomolecular treatment of asthma also looks at environment causes and suggests asthma suffers avoid tobacco smoke and any additional irritants or allergens.  Allergic foods should also be avoided. The most common food allergies found in individuals with asthma are "junk foods," meat and dairy.

If foods are suspected to be the cause of asthma, an orthomolecular therapist will probably take a detailed history of the patient's diet and place the patient on an elimination diet.

Orthomolecular treatment of asthma often includes the use of the following supplements:

Calcium 

Magnesium 

Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine 

Vitamin C Ascorbic Acid 

Vitamin D

* A customized program must be developed by an orthomolecular practitioner

REFERENCES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Articles and Resources

Orthomolecular Medicine News Service, August 9, 2005. ASTHMA TREATMENT THAT WORKS.  http://orthomolecular.org/resources/omns/v01n08.shtml

Hoffer, Abram. "The Megavitamin Revolution" Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. 7.1 (1992)

Hickey S and Saul AW. Vitamin C: The Real Story. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Pub, 2008.

Hoffer A and Saul AW. Orthomolecular Medicine for Everyone. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Pub, 2008.

Kunin, Richard. "Principles That Identify Orthomolecular Medicine: A Unique Medical Specialty". Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. 4 (1987)

Harnett, Cindy. "Victoria MD wins prize for theories on megavitamins" Times Colonist November 3, 2007

Murray, Michael T. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements: The Essential Guide for Improving Your Health Naturally. Roseville, CA: Prima Publishing, 1996.

Pauling, Linus. How to Live Longer and Feel Better. Corvallis: First Oregon State University Press, 2006.