The use of supplements for lung support is growing in popularity because they are an easy way to keep the lungs functioning properly. These supplements have been shown to reduce the risk of a number of respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and emphysema. Using these supplements will ensure that you have the right levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in your body.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is vital to healthy lungs. In fact, it has been shown that magnesium deficiency is associated with a higher prevalence of asthma.
A recent study suggests that taking magnesium supplements may benefit mild-to-moderate asthma patients. It is unclear whether these benefits are caused by the supplement’s effect on bronchodilation.
One study, which compared the effects of a combination of magnesium and vitamin B6 on a patient’s peak expiratory flow (PEF), found that the two combined might be more effective than either vitamin alone. However, there were no clinical trials proving that the combination was better than the individual nutrients.
Another study showed that a nebulizer-administered dose of magnesium is an effective treatment for acute asthma attacks. The study looked at adults who had experienced an attack.
Other studies have shown that magnesium helps improve lung function and reduces lung inflammation. Magnesium may also help relieve stress and fatigue that is often associated with COPD.
However, there is no evidence to support magnesium’s ability to prevent asthma attacks. For that reason, it is important to find effective treatment options. Medications that treat inflammation, such as corticosteroids, aminoglycoside antibiotics, and long-term control medications, can help.
Despite the impressive benefits of magnesium, a large study did not support the use of oral magnesium supplements for the treatment of moderate asthma. Several studies examining the effects of oral magnesium supplements in mild to moderate asthma did not find a significant improvement in FEV1, peak expiratory flow rate, or quality of life.
Liposomal vitamin C
Liposomal vitamin C supplements can help to boost lung function and support the immune system. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, helps to reduce oxidative stress and promote cell regeneration. It also aids in the regulation of high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Vitamin C is found in a variety of natural sources. For example, kiwifruit, bell peppers, rose hips, and broccoli are all rich in vitamin C. Some people also take vitamin C supplements to help fight respiratory infections. Taking a high-dose of vitamin C can also help to decrease the duration of the common cold.
While it’s generally safe to take vitamin C supplements, it’s important to discuss them with your health care team. They may need to be modified depending on your specific needs. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that certain supplements can interact with medications.
Liposomal vitamin C is an advanced form of vitamin C that is encased in microscopic spheres called liposomes. This membrane can allow vitamins to pass through the lining of the lungs, reaching the lower and higher chambers.
The liposomes are made of phospholipids, which are tiny fat-soluble vesicles. Phospholipids are critical for the proper functioning of the cell membrane. In addition, phosphatidylcholine is a powerful anti-inflammatory.
These tiny lipids provide a cellular barrier to protect the vitamin from the harsh digestive environment. The liposomes also prevent free radicals from damaging the vitamin.
Curcumin
Curcumin supplements for lung support can help patients suffering from COPD breathe easier and lessen airway inflammation. It has been shown to reduce swelling, inhibit fibrosis, and improve breathing capacity in mice. In addition, it may have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects.
Curcumin, an orange-yellow coloured compound found in turmeric, has been used in the Ayurvedic tradition for centuries. Studies have shown it to alleviate cough and bronchitis, which are common manifestations of COPD. The spice has also been shown to reduce inflammation in mice, as well as scavenge oxidative damage.
Recently, a new formulation of curcumin for COPD has been developed. This spice is a natural source of antioxidants and a chemopreventive agent. One of its active constituents, called SNEC 30, has been shown to have positive effects on the immune system, helping to eradicate respiratory infections and reversing steroid resistance.
Researchers have now established that curcumin inhibits colony formation in ras-induced mouse lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. Additionally, it suppresses apoptosis and total cell viability. Moreover, it inhibits the proliferation of tumors in a CC-LR mouse model.
Besides, it has been shown to suppress cytotoxicity in a murine model of K-ras-induced lung cancer. These findings are promising for the treatment of COPD.
Another study has suggested that curcumin suppresses bacterial infection in the respiratory tract. This may be because it reduces the number of immune cells that contribute to lung inflammation.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They are found in certain fish and plant sources. They may help reduce inflammation in the lungs, which is a major cause of lung disease.
Studies have suggested that high intake of these fatty acids may help prevent and control COPD. In addition, they can increase quality of life in those with the condition.
It is important to note that the use of these supplements should be done with caution in people with a bleeding disorder. The risk of bleeding is higher with high doses. Always seek the advice of a medical professional.
Omega-3 fatty acids are key components of the cell walls of red blood cells and other body tissues. By modifying the phospholipid fatty acid composition of the cell membranes, omega-3 can decrease production of inflammatory mediators. Moreover, it may also lower the activation of pro-inflammatory transcription factors.
Researchers found that the patients who took omega-3 PUFAs had better pulmonary function and had fewer exacerbations than those who did not take the fatty acids. In addition, they had a lower prevalence of diabetes and hypertension. Moreover, they had a lower rate of ischaemic heart disease and psychiatric disorders.
Omega-3 fatty acids also have a positive effect on asthma. A small study examined the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on 29 children with asthma. Compared to the placebo, the fish oil supplements had a positive effect on the symptoms of the children.
Carotenoid-rich foods
If you have lung problems, you may want to add some carotenoid-rich foods to your diet. This is because they can help your lungs work better.
Carotenoids are antioxidant vitamins. They protect against free radicals, which can damage your arteries and tissues. Some carotenoids also have anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants can also reduce your risk of heart disease. These nutrients are found in fruits and vegetables.
Several studies have shown that people who consume a diet with lots of these nutrients have a lower risk of developing a number of cancers. Researchers are still trying to figure out the exact mechanism by which carotenoids help prevent and treat health problems.
One study examined the relationship between dietary carotenoids and pulmonary function. Participants were asked to complete a food frequency questionnaire and take a lung function test. The results were published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Those who ate the most beta-cryptoxanthin, a carotenoid commonly found in Western diets, had 24 percent less of a risk of developing lung cancer.
Another study, conducted by researchers at the University of Buffalo, looked at zeaxanthin and lutein. Participants who ate zeaxanthin or lutein at least half the average amount of the carotenoid had reduced lung function.
In addition, the risk of developing COPD, a chronic inflammatory lung condition, was also significantly reduced. Smoking was associated with a higher risk of COPD.
Vitamin E
If you’re worried about your lung health, vitamin E supplements may be able to help. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which helps lower the inflammation associated with chronic lung conditions. It also reduces the damage caused by free radicals in the lungs.
Many different studies have found that dietary and serum levels of vitamin E are associated with better lung function. However, a few studies have reported mixed results.
One study looked at the association between dietary vitamin E intake and lung function in women. The Women’s Health Study is a large randomized factorial trial that enrolled 38 597 apparently healthy women aged 45 or older.
The results showed that a 10% reduction in the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was observed in the vitamin E supplementation arm of the trial. This was not modified by cigarette smoking, age, or multivitamin use.
Another study examined the relationship between vitamin E intake and serum tocopherol levels and lung function measurements. Participants were categorized into three groups depending on their smoking status.
The study included a variety of measurements, including FEV1, Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), and Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second (FEV1). Lung function was not significantly different between the vitamin E and placebo groups.
Other research has found that higher gamma-tocopherol levels are associated with better lung function in childhood. Gamma-tocopherol is found in soybean, corn, and canola oil.