Omega-3 counteracts bronchospasm in athletes and athletes
Omega 3 supplements: also good against post-exercise bronchospasm
The intake of Omega 3, fatty acids essential to the health of our bodies, helps reduce bronchospasm caused by physical activity in athletes and sportsmen. This was revealed in an article published in the American Journal of Respiration Critical Care Medicine.
Bronchospasm: what is it and what are the causes
The term bronchospasm means a temporary narrowing of the bronchi, caused by involuntary or abnormal contraction of bronchial smooth muscle as well as irritation of the surrounding tissues. In athletes and sportsmen, the causes of bronchospasm are as follows:
- Increased respiratory activity caused by exertion and physical activity;
- Exposure to allergens or agents that cause irritation;
- bacteria, viruses and toxic substances in the air;
- Excessive inhalation of dry air;
- Excessive inhalation of cold air.
Anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3: the counteracting action
The anti-inflammatory properties of these molecules help reduce the symptoms of bronchospasm, bringing improvements (considered by scholars to be mild) to respiratory conditions. After all, the benefits of Omega-3s for respiratory health are well known: improved lung function in those suffering from asthma or chronic bronchitis is one of them.
Remedies for bronchospasm: dietary supplementation with Omega-3
Dietary supplementation with Omega-3s can alleviate the unwell state caused by this inflammation. These fatty acids can be introduced and assimilated first and foremost through fish:
- salmon
- mackerel
- sardines
- anchovies
- herring
- tuna
- halibut
- swordfish
- brook trout
Other dietary Omega-3 sources include grains, legumes and oil seeds.
However, it is possible to combine fish oil supplements with your diet.
