Borage, black currant, or evening primrose oils  Research suggests that gamma-linolenic acid, the active ingredient in these oils, can relieve joint inflammation. A typical dose is 300 to 1,200 mg daily.

Fish oil  Clinical studies suggest 1,000 to 3,000 mg daily can help. Caution: Do not use if you’re taking anticoagulants or have bleeding disorders or uncontrolled hypertension.

Vitamin C  New research links this beneficial vitamin to asthma prevention. Evidence shows that 1 to 2 grams per day are effective against exercise-induced asthma (Primary Care, 2002, vol. 29, no. 2).

Vitamin E  This well-studied vitamin appears to help lower asthma risk. A general recommendation is 200 to 400 IU daily. Look for natural (not synthetic) E with mixed tocopherols.