The Claim: A Cup of Coffee can Ease the Symptoms of Asthma

Caffeine is known more as a pick-me-up than a home remedy, but for years scientists have wondered whether it may have benefits for people with asthma. The suspicion stems in part from its chemical structure, which resembles that of theophylline, a common asthma medication that relaxes the airway muscles and relieves wheezing, shortness of breath and other respiratory problems. Indeed, when caffeine is ingested and broken down by the liver, one byproduct is small amounts of theophylline. . read more.

Food-Allergy Fears Drive Overly Restrictive Diets, Study Suggests

Many children, especially those with eczema, are unnecessarily avoiding foods based on incomplete information about potential food-allergies, according to researchers at National Jewish Health. The food avoidance poses a nutritional risk for these children, and is often based primarily on data from blood tests known as serum immunoassays. Many factors, including patient and family history, physical examination, and blood and skin tests, should be used when evaluating potential food allergies. . read more.