A longitudinal cohort study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine (2006; 174:499–507) examined maternal nutrient intake during pregnancy and followed the health of 1,861 children for five years. Maternal nutrient status was assessed using food frequency questionnaires and blood nutrient levels. Children were evaluated using several measures, including lung function testing (FEV1) in 478 children, exhaled nitric oxide as a marker of airway inflammation in 167 children, and allergy skin-prick testing in 700 children. The researchers found that higher maternal intake of vitamin E– and zinc-rich foods during pregnancy was associated with a reduced risk of asthma and allergic disease in the children.