The loss of lung functions may be prevented by Vitamin D, according to a study that says that the lungs stand to benefit from greater concentrations of the vitamin. The vitamin is found in products like fortified breakfast cereals, dairy products and fatty fish. Exposure to the sun is considered the most important source of vitamin D.
The University of Auckland’s researchers found that patients with higher concentrations of vitamin D had significantly better lung functions, compared to patients with lower concentrations."Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer," said Peter Black of the research group, who examined the relationship between vitamin D and lung functions through 14,091 people aged 20 years.
"The difference in lung function between the highest and lowest quintiles of vitamin D is substantial and greater than the difference between former and non-smokers," he added.
"Although there is a definite relationship between lung function and vitamin D, it is unclear if increases in vitamin D through supplements or dietary intake will actually improve lung function in patients with chronic respiratory diseases."
Overall, male gender, younger age, white ethnicity, non-smoking status, and regular, vigorous physical activity were associated with the highest lung function.
Vitamin D was higher in men than women, was inversely related to body mass index, and it declined with age. Vitamin D also was lower in non-Hispanic blacks and Mexican-Americans, compared with non-Hispanic whites, and it was lower in participants smoking more than 20 cigarettes a day compared with non-smokers.
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"By understanding the effect that vitamins have on lung functions, we may be able to identify new and more effective treatments for these debilitating diseases."IANS
