Vitamins for the Lungs

There's nothing quite so scary as seeing someone labor to breathe.  I think it goes without saying that lifestyle can have a signicant impact on lung disease when it comes to obesity, smoking cessation, exercise, and nutrition.  But for those suffering with asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or COPD and doing the necessary things to take care of themselves, here's a peak at some key supplements to take consistently to prevent or lessen further lung decline.  The aging lung will naturally morph without our permission and lung health for the long haul needs to be addressed ASAP before the years pass and it's too late.  Get aggressive with your health care (in all areas) before disease strikes.  If you have a problem breather in the home, get some supplements started TODAY!

There's a stepwise approach to airway management which includes short and long acting bronchodilators, antihistamines, steroids, meds such as Singular or Theophylline, which will hopefully prevent a trip to the Emergency Room.  I'm not advocating that you stop using what is necessary to breathe, but what should a person take as a vitamin regimen to help their lungs function better on a continual basis? 

Here's a great list to follow:

1.  Nutrient levels and lung function have been studied.  Higher levels of antioxidant vitamins (A,C, and E) along with selenium were associated with higher lung function values.  In fact, low intake of Vitamin C and to a lesser extent Vitamin A were associated with increased asthma risk.

2.  Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, and Zinc on pulmonary function tests and inflammatory markers in children demonstrated beneficial effects. 

3.  A 2009 article examining the role of Vitamin D in COPD concluded there was a dose-dependent association with improved pulmonary function. A multivitamin with Vitamin D is a great idea, or take it as a separate supplement as I do.

4.  A study appearing in late 2008 showed that glutathione, N-acetyl cysteine as well as dietary phenols (curcumin, resveratol, and green tea/quercetin) reduced free radicals and halted inflammation.  Halting inflammation in every way possible is a core strategy in preventing asthma episodes. 

5.  Low levels of hormones have been connected to patients with COPD.  A recent study in 2009 demonstrated that testosterone and DHEA levels were low in COPD patients and were related to lower FEV1, pO2, and PaCO2.  Estrogen and Progesterone use have been associated with improved pulmonary function in premenopausal females. 

6.  Stress and a poor immune system can make one susceptible to colds and breathing difficulties.  Boosting the immune system with great vitamins, adrenal support products, and key sleep supplements can improve more than just the lungs.  If you or one of your children are getting recurrent respiratory symptoms, you should seriously consider a good vitamin regimen.  For adults, you should also consider testing hormones and adrenal function to restore peak performance.


If you, a friend, or family member are suffering with breathing problems, get started on a great vitamin regimen.  And please make sure that you include these key supplements on a daily basis. I promote only pharmaceutical grade and high quality products for these types of needs.

To your good health,
Dr. Sonja