The effects of soft-drink preservatives on asthmatic children.
Sulphites, used extensively as preservatives in foods and soft drinks, are known to precipitate asthma attacks in 5-10% of susceptible children. Among children attending the Allergy Clinic at the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, many were found to be sensitive to sulphites. The basis of asthma therapy is modification of the environment and avoidance of precipitating factors. Medical personnel counselling parents of asthmatic children should be aware of this factor. A list of soft drinks containing sulphites and other preservatives is included.
D000293:Adolescent; D001249:Asthma / Q000139:chemically induced*; D001565:Benzoates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001628:Beverages / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005421:Flavoring Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D005520:Food Preservatives / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D013458:Sulfur Dioxide / Q000009:adverse effects*
D001565:Benzoates; D005421:Flavoring Agents; D005520:Food Preservatives; D013458:Sulfur Dioxide