Green Lipped Mussel and Asthma: A Natural Relief?

You might have heard the terms “green lipped mussel” and “asthma” together and wondered about the connection. One is a shellfish from New Zealand, and the other is a chronic inflammatory disease. But can green lipped mussels help with asthma relief? Let’s explore this intriguing possibility.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting millions of people worldwide. In simple terms, asthma is a condition where a patient’s airways become narrow and inflamed, causing swelling and mucus production. Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Asthma can be triggered by various factors, including exercise, cold air, allergies, and smoke. The severity of asthma episodes can vary, with some people experiencing occasional symptoms and others having daily or constant symptoms.

Statistics show that asthma affects 1 in 9 adults and 1 in 7 children. Additionally, 63 people die from asthma each year, which means one person dies from asthma every week. Despite its impact on quality of life, there are treatments available, and one promising option is the green lipped mussel.

What is Green Lipped Mussel?

Perna canaliculus, commonly known as the green lipped mussel, is a type of shellfish native to New Zealand. They are invertebrates, meaning they lack an internal skeleton made of bone.

Green lipped mussels are typically found below the low-tide line, but they also inhabit intertidal zones (the shoreline area between high and low tide). These mussels are significant for New Zealand, contributing to food production and supplements.

Asthma and Green Lipped Mussel

The European Respiratory Journal published a study analysing the efficacy of green lipped mussel on asthma. In this study, 46 participants with atopic asthma took either a green lipped mussel supplement or a placebo for eight weeks.

The results showed that the supplement significantly reduced daytime wheezing and the concentration of exhaled H2O2 while increasing morning PEF (peak expiratory flow). Participants did not experience side effects, indicating that green lipped mussel is safe for consumption.

Additionally, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial by Emelyanov et al. in 2002 found that green lipped mussel powder was an effective anti-inflammatory agent in treating bronchial asthma. The study noted a significant decrease in symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing, improving the quality of life for asthma sufferers.

Green Lipped Mussel Benefits for Asthma Patients

Green lipped mussels offer numerous benefits for asthma patients due to their healthy compounds:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The high content of omega-3 fatty acids in green lipped mussels is the primary reason for their efficacy. These fatty acids are more easily absorbed by the body compared to those in fish oil.

Evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the production of IgE, the antibodies responsible for allergic reactions and asthma symptoms. This is supported by the correlation between increased rates of asthma and decreased consumption of fish and seafood in modern diets. Omega-3s in green lipped mussels help reduce inflammation in lung tissues, providing relief for asthma sufferers.

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are two well-known omega-3 fatty acids found in green lipped mussels. Both have anti-inflammatory properties, with DHA also improving lung function in asthmatic patients.

Vitamin C

Green lipped mussels are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that reduces airway inflammation. Studies have shown that vitamin C can improve pulmonary function tests, enhance white blood cell function, and reduce respiratory infections. Vitamin C also boosts the immune system, potentially reducing asthma attacks. Asthmatic children given vitamin C supplements have fewer attacks and use less medication.

Minerals

Green lipped mussels are also rich in minerals like zinc and selenium.

• Zinc: Essential for cell growth, immune function, and protein synthesis. Asthma patients often have lower zinc levels than healthy individuals. Zinc supplements can improve lung function and reduce symptoms, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Selenium: An essential trace mineral found in small amounts in the body. Selenium, present in green lipped mussels, may help reduce asthma symptoms, though more research is needed.

NutriNZ Green Lipped Mussel

NutriNZ offers a potent green lipped mussel supplement blended with rosemary extract, which acts as an antioxidant. This natural product reduces inflammation and alleviates asthma, providing a safe and natural solution for respiratory conditions.

NutriNZ sources shellfish from high-quality, licensed marine farms in New Zealand’s South Island. Their supplements are 100% authentic and made with quality ingredients, ensuring minimal side effects.

Side Effects of Green Lipped Mussel Supplements

Green lipped mussel supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, some people may be allergic, with symptoms including itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, stop taking the supplement and seek medical attention immediately.

These supplements can also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and blood pressure medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking other medications.

Conclusion

Green lipped mussel extract offer promising benefits for asthma relief due to their rich content of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and essential minerals. NutriNZ provides a high-quality supplement that can help reduce inflammation and improve the quality of life for asthma patients. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

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