What is AERDs?
Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD)s
Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD), also known as Samter's Triad, is a challenging condition marked by three primary features: asthma, chronic nasal polyps, and severe sensitivity to aspirin and other NSAIDs.
For many, the journey with AERD is further complicated by respiratory reactions to alcohol and a diminished sense of smell—symptoms that often go unnoticed or misdiagnosed.
Living with AERDs
The Problem
The journey began with a series of debilitating symptoms: severe asthma attacks, chronic nasal polyps, and painful reactions to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Beyond these primary challenges of Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD), there were additional struggles, including respiratory sensitivity to alcohol and a nearly complete loss of smell. These symptoms severely disrupted quality of life and made daily living a constant battle. Traditional treatments, including surgery, offered little relief or long-term improvement, prompting a search for an alternative solution that could effectively manage the condition without invasive procedures.
The Solution
A breakthrough came through (as they always do), from our Mum. The connection was made between the role of diet in reducing inflammation and improving respiratory health. A Mediterranean-inspired dietary approach was adopted, emphasizing whole, nutrient-dense foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids while drastically reducing omega-6 intake. By eliminating seed oils and focusing on foods specifically friendly to AERD, the goal was to not only avoid known triggers but also promote healing and overall wellness through nourishment. We (as we always do) participated in this lifestyle change as a family.
The Results
After a year of experimenting with this tailored approach, the results have been remarkable. There have been substantial improvements in asthma control, a reduction in the frequency and severity of nasal symptoms, and a slow but steady return of the sense of smell. Most importantly, overall quality of life has significantly improved—without the need for surgery or an over-reliance on medications.
This journey is a powerful example of how intentional dietary changes, rooted in reducing inflammation and supporting respiratory health, can transform the management of chronic conditions like AERD. By focusing on a holistic, nutrition-first approach, it is possible to find meaningful relief and regain a sense of normalcy in daily life.
Our Solution
We're not doctors, but this is what has worked for us.
Embracing the Mediterranean Diet
This time-tested approach to eating emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods that are naturally anti-inflammatory.
Key components include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and high-quality proteins such as fish and lean meats.
The Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on healthy fats, like those found in olive oil, further supports its benefits for AERD management.
Low Omega-6 and High Omega-3 Foods
To reduce inflammation, we focused on lowering omega-6 fatty acids, commonly found in processed foods, fried items, and certain oils.
At the same time, the diet was enriched with omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel, and sardines), walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.
Omega-3s are known to counteract the inflammatory effects of omega-6s, making them a crucial element of this strategy.
Elimination of
Seed Oils
Seed oils, such as soybean, corn, canola, sunflower, and safflower oils, are a primary source of omega-6 fatty acids in modern diets.
These were completely removed and replaced with healthier alternatives like extra virgin olive oil, tallow, grass-fed butter, and coconut oil, ensuring the diet remained anti-inflammatory and supportive of respiratory health.