How to Use Flaxseed Oil to Treat Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition in which bronchial airways become inflamed, making it hard to breathe. The environment often plays a role, especially in childhood asthma. White blood cells produce fatty compounds called leukotrienes in order to fight substances that the body sees as allergens. This includes dust, air pollution and fur and dander from household pets. Flaxseed oil can effectively treat asthma because of the high level of omega-3 it contains. The body does not make as many leukotrienes when large quantities of omega-3 are in the bloodstream.

Instructions

1

Discuss the appropriate dosage of flaxseed oil with your doctor. A typical dose used to treat inflammatory diseases for an adult is 1 to 3 tbsp. per day. The dose may be considerably less for a child who has asthma.

2

Mix flaxseed oil into a large glass of juice and drink it with your breakfast. If you are not used to taking flaxseed, you could experience some minor stomach upset. Taking the supplement along with food can help relieve this side effect.

3

Mask the taste of flaxseed oil in a chocolate shake. Combine the oil with ice cream, chocolate syrup and a small amount of milk in a blender. This treat can be a particularly good way to get children to take flaxseed oil without complaints.

4

Use ground flaxseed in homemade baked goods to add fiber and omega-3 to your asthmatic child's diet. Again, this is a good way to sneak the nutrient into your picky eater's food without him noticing.

5

Add flaxseed oil to just about any prepared food you can think of such as salad dressings, oatmeal, yogurt or a fruit salad. In addition to anti-inflammatory properties, flaxseed is an excellent antioxidant that can cleanse your system.

6

Remember to keep flaxseed oil in the refrigerator. This type of oil will become rancid quite quickly and easily. Check it periodically to make sure it does not have a strong odor, signalling it is past its "use by" date.