Healthy eating slows lung deterioration in patients with asthma and COPD

• A healthy diet increases FEV1 and the Gensler index in healthy individuals
• In patients with asthma and COPD, the decline in lung function occurs more slowly
• The study is published in ERJ Open Research
• Nutrition can complement pharmacological treatment

Scientists from an international research group analyzed the relationship between diet quality and lung function status. The assessment of the diet was conducted using validated dietary indices reflecting the frequency of fruit, vegetable, whole grain consumption, and the limitation of processed foods.

Context of lung diseases

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remain among the leading causes of chronic disability and mortality worldwide. According to WHO estimates, over 300 million people suffer from asthma, while COPD affects about 250 million. Traditionally, treatment has focused on pharmacological therapy; however, there is growing interest in the role of lifestyle, particularly nutrition, in the prevention and slowing of the progression of these diseases.

The study included several thousand participants, among whom were both completely healthy volunteers and patients with a confirmed diagnosis of asthma or COPD. For each participant, lung function parameters were measured – forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the Gensler index (the ratio of FEV1 to forced vital capacity, FVC).

The results showed that individuals adhering to a healthier diet had a higher level of FEV1 and a more favorable Gensler index compared to those whose diet was less balanced. This indicates a positive impact of nutrition on the baseline level of lung function in the healthy population.

Patients with asthma and COPD typically experience a gradual decline in lung function. However, in the group that followed a healthier diet, the rate of this decline was significantly lower. Thus, a nutrient-rich diet may slow the progression of lung diseases.

The authors emphasize that the obtained data do not prove a direct causal relationship; however, they support the hypothesis that dietary factors can influence the course of respiratory diseases. Including dietary recommendations in clinical practice may become an additional tool in managing asthma and COPD.

The study underwent peer review and was published in open access in the journal ERJ Open Research, allowing a wide range of specialists to familiarize themselves with the methodology and results.

Overall, the work expands the understanding of how lifestyle, specifically diet, can interact with lung function and opens up prospects for developing comprehensive programs for the prevention and treatment of respiratory diseases.

Source: N+1