Past observations have suggested that a compound from soy called genistein might ease asthma symptoms. That’s partly because high levels of this isoflavone can reduce the inflammatory compounds produced by white blood cells called eosinophils. Inflammation linked to eosinophils is considered to be a contributor to asthma severity.
An Experiment with Genistein
Investigators with the American Lung Association Asthma Clinical Research Centers recruited 386 adults and children with poorly controlled asthma. The volunteers were randomly assigned to take a genistein supplement or a look-alike placebo for six months, while the researchers kept tabs on lung function.
No Improvement in Asthma Symptoms
Although the supplement increased blood levels of genistein markedly, there was no corresponding improvement in lung function. As a result, the scientists conclude, this supplement is not helpful for patients with poorly controlled asthma.
People who have not been able to get their asthma under good control might be interested in Dr. David Hahn’s book, A Cure for Asthma? What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You-and Why, published by People’s Pharmacy Press. In it, he presents evidence that some cases of asthma not responding to the usual treatments may be linked to a lung infection lurking deep in the cells. Long-term treatment with the appropriate antibiotic such as azithromycin may be able to clear up asthma symptoms for an extended period of time.
