Here’s one that falls in the category I call “Really?”
Not trying to be sarcastic here, but what I mean by this is, “Yeah, we already know this … it’s not a surprise!”
Of course, every so often, scientists feel the need to get even more exacting proof of something we already know… in this case, that a good diet promotes good health.
And this research never hurts, because it’s something we tend to forget as we go about our busy lives. It’s never a bad thing to show us more proof.
In this case, the research focuses on fruit consumption and healthy lungs.
And anytime of year, but especially when heading into cold and flu season, the health of your lungs is a big deal…
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Fruit antioxidants fight lung damage from air pollution
According to a recent British study, eating fruit may reduce the effects of air pollution on our lungs.
Pimpika Kaewsri, the researcher, a PhD student at the University of Leicester, explains what she was setting out to explore:
“Over 90% of the global population is exposed to air pollution levels that exceed WHO guidelines, and ample research shows that exposure to higher air pollution levels is associated with reduced lung function.
“Separately, a healthy diet – particularly one high in fruits and vegetables – has been linked to better lung function. We wanted to explore whether a healthy diet or specific food groups could modify or partly mitigate the known adverse effects of air pollution on lung function.”
Using data from the UK Biobank, Kaewsri compared dietary patterns with lung function in about 200,000 participants.
To measure lung function, she used FEV1, or the amount of air exhaled in one second, and exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5). PM2.5 represents the concentration of particles 2.5micrometers or smaller, found in vehicle exhaust and industrial waste.
She compared these with participants’ intake of fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
For every increase in exposure to PM2.5 particles, she saw a 78.1 ml reduction in FEV1 in those with low fruit intake, compared with only a 57.5 ml reduction in those with high fruit intake.
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Choose fruits highest in antioxidants
The researcher notes that this protective effect may be explained by the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds present in fruit, and that these compounds could offset some of the harm caused by small particle air pollution.
Which brings me back to my original comment… “Really?”
It isn’t news that fruits are full of antioxidants, some more than others, and that antioxidants fight inflammation…
Or that powerful antioxidants found in berries called anthocyanins have already been linked to helping retain “youthful” lung function…
And that strawberries reduce the production of several inflammatory molecules in the body.
Other fruits high in antioxidants include:
- blueberries
- blackberries
- cherries
- cranberries
- raspberries
- apples
- oranges
- red grapes
Enjoy these fruits straight, in yogurt, or in smoothies. The benefits are the same!
Get them now before winter comes around!
Sources:
Fruit might be the surprising key to healthier lungs —Science Daily
Eating fruit may reduce the effects of air pollution on lung function —European Respiratory Society
Read full article here