Study Reveals the Impact of a Healthy Diet on Lung Function Amid Environmental Pollution

A recent study has uncovered the relationship between a healthy diet and lung function, especially in the context of environmental pollution exposure. This study was presented by Bempika Kiosri, a PhD student at the Center for Environmental Health and Sustainability at the University of Leicester, UK, who highlighted that most of the global population is exposed to air pollution levels exceeding World Health Organization guidelines.

The Impact of Diet on Lung Function

Kiosri noted that exposure to high levels of air pollution is associated with decreased lung function, whereas a healthy diet, particularly one rich in fruits and vegetables, is linked to better lung function. The researchers aimed to explore whether diet or specific food groups could modify or mitigate the known negative effects of air pollution on lung function.

Using data from the UK Biobank, which included around 200,000 participants, Kiosri compared individuals’ dietary patterns, including their consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, with lung function (FEV1) and their exposure levels to fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

Study Results: Fruits as a Protective Factor

The study showed that an increase in exposure to fine particles by five micrograms per cubic meter of air led to a decrease in lung function by 78.1 ml in the group with low fruit consumption, compared to a decrease of 57.5 ml in the group with high fruit consumption among women.

Kiosri explains this effect by suggesting that the natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in fruits may help alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation caused by fine particles, thereby reducing some of the damage air pollution inflicts on lung function.

Gender Differences in Fruit Consumption

Kiosri observed that men reported lower fruit consumption compared to women, which might explain why the potential protective effect of fruits against air pollution was only noted in women.

Kiosri plans to continue research to explore whether diet can influence changes in lung function over time.

Expert Opinions

Professor Sarah De Matos, head of the expert group at the European Respiratory Society, who was not involved in the research, confirmed that this study highlights the potential benefits of a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits for respiratory health.

De Matos pointed out that access to a healthy diet is not equally distributed among populations, and the role of governments remains crucial in adopting policies to reduce air pollution.

Conclusion

The study concluded that a healthy diet can play a significant role in improving lung function, especially in the face of air pollution exposure. While women benefited more from fruit consumption, the results indicate the importance of promoting a plant-rich diet for everyone. The role of governments remains pivotal in reducing environmental pollution rates, and the burden of public health should not rest solely on individuals.