Share

Poor diet weakens lungs

Certain vitamin deficiencies may lead to decreased lung function in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, says a new study.

For the study, 20 COPD patients (13 women, seven men) completed a questionnaire to assess their dietary intake of vitamins A, C, D, E and selenium, all of which contain cell-protecting antioxidants. A diet low in antioxidants - as compared to national dietary intake requirements - was common among the patients.

The percentages of deficiencies were: 25% (selenium), 45% (vitamin C), 90% (vitamin E), 55% (vitamin A), and 70% (vitamin D).

The researchers then measured the maximum amount of air the patients could exhale with force. All the patients with a selenium-deficient diet had decreased lung function. Among patients deficient in vitamins C, A, and D, only men had decreased lung function.

What the findings mean

"Our study, along with other research, suggests that strategies for dietary modification and supplementation should be considered in patients with COPD," Dr M. Salman Khan of Akron City Hospital, Ohio, said.

"Further studies are needed to clarify the role gender has on the loss of lung function in COPD and the impact of antioxidant nutrient intake," Khan said, adding that antioxidants might also benefit people with severe asthma.

"We would guess that the role of antioxidant nutrients in a well-controlled asthma patient would be less than that seen in patients with COPD," Khan said. "However, in patients with severe asthma with poorly controlled symptoms and frequent, recurring exacerbations, antioxidant nutrient intake may indeed play an important role in the preservation of lung function."


(Copyright © 2010 HealthDay. All rights reserved.)

Pollution ups lung disease risk
COPD liklier in short people

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE