Children who eat a Mediterranean diet packed with fruit, vegetables and nuts are less likely to develop asthma and allergies, say researchers. A study carried out on the Greek island of Crete found eating high quantities of traditional foods such as olive oil could protect youngsters from wheezing and other allergic symptoms.

Researchers found eight out of 10 children ate fresh fruit – and over two thirds of them fresh vegetables – at least twice a day. The effect of diet was strongest on allergic rhinitis which results in a runny or blocked nose, but it also gave protection against asthma symptoms and skin allergies. Children who ate nuts at least three times a week were less likely to wheeze, as well as those who enjoyed grapes.

But high consumption of margarine doubled the chances of asthma and allergic rhinitis, says a report published in the medical journal Thorax. Researchers believe the epidemic of asthma in developed countries could be linked to a move away from natural, fresh foods to fast foods – as has happened here since the 1970s. In recent years the Mediterranean diet has been thought to also improve heart health and stave off cancer because it is high in fruit, vegetables, fish and ‘healthy’ fats such as those in olive oil, while low in red meat and dairy products.

Housework is officially bad for you. Experts say cleaning sprays could increase your risk of asthma by 70 percent but this doesn’t mean you should ditch the cleaning and dusting; quite the opposite as studies show that exercise is a great way to burn calories. Just try natural brands or store cupboards alternatives such as lemon juice with vinegar.

Q: “My son has had a bout of asthma twice from eating hamburgers and fizzy drinks from a well known food chain. Could there be a link?”

A: There may be, according to New Zealand doctors who in 2005 reported a series of cases. It’s still not clear whether it is the material in the burgers or the drinks that caused the flare ups but they describe it as significant and advise people with asthma to be wary of fast food.