A Clinical Trial of Mediterranean Diet Enriched with Fatty Fish in Pediatric Asthma: Study Protocol

Background: Considerable interest exists in the therapeutic potential of dietary omega 3 fatty acids in asthma, due to anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. The aim of this Randomized Controlled Trial is to investigate the efficacy of fatty fish consumption in the context of the Mediterranean diet in ameliorating symptoms in pediatric asthma. Methods: Children aged 5-12 years with physician-diagnosed “mild asthma” will be recruited from a pediatric asthma clinic in Athens and randomized to two groups. The intervention group will consume two meals of fatty fish (≥ 150g cooked fish) per week over a period of 6 months as part of the Greek Mediterranean diet. The control group consumes their usual diet. Questionnaires will be used to collect data on socio-demographics, medical history, dietary habits, adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern, asthma control and quality of life. Pulmonary function will be assessed using spirometry and exhaled nitric oxide analysis. In addition, blood tests will be undertaken to assess metabolic profile, biomarkers of nutritional status and dietary intake. Discussion: This clinical dietary intervention will evaluate the therapeutic potential of a Mediterranean diet enriched with fatty fish on pediatric asthma and assist in devising dietary guidelines for the management of pediatric asthma.