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Past research has shown that oily fish such as canned tuna is good for your heart, helps reduce depression, and relieves the pain of arthritis. Now, a research study out of Cambridge, England, reveals that consumption of oily fish such as tuna can also protect against asthma. The study, presented at the Winter Meeting of the British Thoracic Society even suggests that the reduction of oily fish in the British diet could be a contributory factor to an apparent rise in asthma rates there.

The research project looked at more than 750 people, some with asthma, and some without. The participants were asked about their diets and in particular, how much oily fish they ate every week. The results revealed that asthmatics who ate oily fish such as tuna experienced significantly fewer symptoms such as tight chests and wheezing than those asthmatics who did not.

"We know that oily fish such as canned tuna are packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that help in a wide range of health issues from heart disease to arthritis. This new study gives consumers another important health reason to increase their consumption of tuna," said Melanie Miller, national director of communications and marketing for the U.S. Tuna Foundation. "With all of the other benefits, it comes as no surprise that fish can help protect the body against asthma too."

Canned tuna is an essential part of a nutritious and balanced diet. Consumers should consult their physicians or a registered dietician about their diets, and follow the Food and Drug Administration and American Heart Association's guidelines recommending two-to-three fish meals per week.

The U.S. Tuna Foundation is the national organization representing the fishermen, processors and marketers of canned tuna.

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