healthy asthma study in New Jersey

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Asthma Sufferers Sought for Clinical Study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Teaneck, NJ (March 11, 2004) — Adults who suffer from any type of asthma and

are non-smokers are sought for a new clinical study at Fairleigh Dickinson

University. The goal of the study is to reduce asthma symptoms and medication

consumption, promote weight loss and improve quality of life.

The no-cost program is nutrition based, consisting of education and the

introduction of a low-fat strict vegetarian diet; it is also free of

medications and supplements. Participants in the study will meet at Fairleigh

Dickinson’s Metropolitan Campus, Teaneck, NJ, for approximately one hour per

week for eight-to-ten weeks.

According to Radnitz, Ph.D., research suggests a vegetarian diet rich

in antioxidants and nutrients, low in fat, allergens and histamines will

improve asthma symptoms and reduce reliance on medications, by both mechanisms

of weight loss and minimization of bronchial inflammation.

Tara, who had both childhood and adult asthma adapted a plant-based diet at

age 24 and has been a strict vegetarian for over 20 years. “I kept trying to

stay off medication, but my asthma eventually progressed to the point that it

took six medications to get it under control… But since I went vegan, I

haven’t needed more than the occasional puff (on an inhaler), usually

following exercise.â€

Radnitz said that the widespread introduction of vegetarian food products in

both restaurants and food markets has made it easier to follow a diet devoid

of animal fat and high in fruits and vegetables.

Dr. Neal Barnard, a consultant for the study, is the founder and president of

the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. He said, “Asthma is a

serious — sometimes life-threatening — problem, and there is an urgent need

to

understand the factors that influence it.â€

Seltz M.A., an advanced doctoral student, will coordinate and serve an

integral role in the weekly trainings. Dr. Radnitz, faculty member of the

School of Psychology at FDU and a published behavior specialist, will serve as

supervisor and will lend her behavior change expertise. K.C. McQuillan RN and

Bertron RN, who hold masters’ degrees in nutrition counseling and

Janet Lasky, a vegetarian foods expert, will provide individually tailored

information to maintain a healthy, vegetarian diet. Pulmonologist Dr. Marc

Lavietes will act as a consultant.

The study at Fairleigh Dickinson will begin in early April. Adult asthma

sufferers interested in learning more or participating should call (201) 692-

7212 or e-mail mseltz@....

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