Most of us understand the importance of a healthy diet. Therefore, it may not surprise you to know that a poor diet may worsen chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In a study presented at CHEST 2010, it was discovered that a low dietary intake of certain antioxidants like vitamins A, C, D, E, and selenium increases the chance of decreased lung function in people with COPD, especially in men.
Dr. M. Salman Khan of Summa Akron City Hospital in Ohio analyzed data from 13 women and 7 men who had COPD. The subjects completed a take-home questionnaire which evaluated their dietary intake of certain antioxidants. After completing the questionnaire, lung function was measured, specifically FVC (the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled).
Results concluded that:
"a diet poor in antioxidants was common with the following percentages of participants having deficiencies: 25 percent (selenium), 45 percent (vitamin C), 90 percent (vitamin E), 55 percent (vitamin A), and 70 percent (vitamin D). Decreased lung function was found in all people with a diet deficient in selenium. Of those who were deficient in vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin D, lung function was only worse in men".
The morale to the story...a well-balanced diet is not only important for overall health, but for lung health, as well.
source; American College of Chest Physicians.
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