This study utilized Mendelian Randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationships between dietary intake, serum antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, and the risk of childhood asthma (CA). The study integrated genetic data from several large-scale databases to assess the impact of factors like sugars, fats, proteins, and micronutrients (such as magnesium and vitamin D) on the development of CA. The results indicated that higher sugar intake was inversely associated with CA risk, while increased intake of fats, magnesium, and vitamin D levels in serum were linked to a higher risk of CA. These findings emphasize the potential role of nutrition and dietary components in asthma risk, although further research is needed to confirm the mechanisms behind these associations.
The study’s methodology involved using genetic variants as instrumental variables (IVs) to reduce confounding factors and biases, offering stronger evidence for causal relationships than traditional observational studies. The findings highlight important nutritional factors, such as the protective role of sugar intake and the risk associated with fat, magnesium, and vitamin D levels. Future research should explore these associations in more diverse populations and investigate the relationship between dietary intake and CA more comprehensively.
Reference: Luo L, Chen G, Zhou Y, et al. Dietary intake, antioxidants, minerals and vitamins in relation to childhood asthma: a Mendelian randomization study. Front Nutr. 2024 May 23;11:1401881. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1401881. PMID: 38846540; PMCID: PMC11153797.
