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Zinc, vitamin
C, B3 (niacin), B6
(pyroxidine), magnesium, melatonin
and quality proteins are all vital co-factors
of Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) metabolism.
As
a result, deficiencies in any of these nutrients play an indirect role in eicosapentaenoic
acid (EPA) and dihomo-gamma-linoleic acid (DGLA) production and metabolism, and thus, in
associated inflammatory conditions, including asthma.
All
of these nutrients function in delta-6-desaturase,
one of the enzymes necessary for the conversion of EPA and DGLA, and, the conversion of
linoleic acid to GLA. (see figure)
Likewise
vitamins C and B6, and zinc are required for delta-5-desaturase. Deficiencies in
these nutrients would therefore increase the inflammatory arachidonic acid productions
found in asthma.
Studies
on populations of asthma patients have shown deficiencies in B-6, magnesium and vitamin
C.
These
deficiencies suggest a possible associated reduction of EFA metabolism, and therefore an
increase in inflammatory prostaglandins, and a reduction of anti-inflammatory
prostaglandins.
It
is suggested that supplementation of these nutrients would benefit enzyme nutrient
deficiency, and therefore, a reduction of inflammation in asthma.
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