Childhood asthma is not a fun topic to read about (or write about), but staying informed is the first step toward protection. In 2019, asthma was the leading cause of pediatric hospitalizations. Today, over 6 million children in the U.S. (roughly 8.4%) live with this diagnosis, creating a significant burden for both families and the healthcare system.

Is Your Child at Risk?

While some factors are beyond our control, understanding them helps us stay vigilant. Common risk factors include:

Genetics
A family history of asthma increases a child’s predisposition.

Prenatal Factors
Maternal smoking, diets low in vitamin D or omega-3s, and certain medication exposures during pregnancy.

Birth & Infancy
Premature birth, C-section delivery, neonatal jaundice, or a lack of breastfeeding.

Common Asthma Triggers in Infants and Children

Triggers can vary, but common contributors include:

Indoor Allergens
Dust mites, mold, and cockroach droppings.

Air QualityPollution, indoor chemicals, and household fumes.

Health & Lifestyle
Respiratory infections (like RSV), high stress, and diets heavy in sulfites or preservatives.

Medication Exposure
Research suggests that repeated use of acetaminophen or antibiotics in infancy may also play a role.

At this point, it may seem that nearly all children are destined to develop asthma. What can parents do to help prevent it? Fortunately, quite a lot.

Supporting Asthma Prevention During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, there are meaningful changes you can make. First and most importantly, stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke as much as possible. Focus on a diet rich in antioxidants (especially vegetables), and consider supplementing with fish oil and vitamin D alongside your prenatal. These small changes can have a huge impact!

Reducing Asthma Risk in Infants and Children

For infants and children, daily vegetable intake is key. Research shows that the Mediterranean diet is one of the most effective dietary patterns for reducing a child’s risk of asthma. Encouraging regular movement and exercise can also help increase lung capacity.

Parents should examine their children’s exposure to environmental allergens and toxins, particularly dust mites, cockroach droppings, and unnecessary household chemicals and fumes.

If you are open to adding just one supplement (although it supports many aspects of health), a probiotic may be beneficial. Research suggests:

• Ages 6–24 months: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG

• Older children: Lactobacillus gasseri

If adding a second supplement, my next choice is a high-quality omega-3.

Register now for Dr. Sage’s next Four Seasons of Health workshop on January 22, 2026– Winter Wellness: Beat Lingering Coughs and Prepare for Spring Allergies and Asthma

In my practice as a naturopathic family physician, I find asthma diagnoses are less common. This is often because my patients naturally focus on whole foods, avoid household toxins, and use medications more judiciously. By making these small shifts, you may already be giving your child a meaningful head start toward lifelong respiratory health.

At Intuition Wellness Center, we specialize in health and wellness services for children, young adults and their families. If you think you would like some extra support, we’re here for you. To learn more or to get started on your journey to health, give Intuition Wellness Center a call at 520-333-3320.

Written by: Dr. Kate Sage, NMD, Naturopathic Family Physician