Researchers from the National Institute of Public Health in Mexico found that women who ate a diet rich in tomatoes, carrots and leafy greens reduced their risk of developing asthma by 22 percent.
The findings, reported in the journal Thorax, were based on a study of over 68,000 women as part of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), which recorded dietary intakes and dietary habits.
After eleven years of follow up, researchers found that women who consumed more than 90 grams of leafy vegetables per day had a 22 percent lower risk of asthma. Tomatoes were associated with a 20 percent lower risk, while carrots were associated with an 18 percent lower risk.
Researchers speculate the mechanism of protection is likely due to the interaction of nutrients from the fruits and vegetables, however more studies are needed to determine if specific fruits and vegetables can protect against certain diseases.
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