Eating this common food could protect your lungs from air pollution
New study finds fruit could combat harmful air pollution
- A new study by researchers at the University of Leicester suggests that consuming more fruit may lessen the impact of air pollution on lung function.
- The protective effect was particularly evident in women who ate four or more portions of fruit daily, potentially due to the antioxidants present.
- Researchers analysed UK Biobank data from over 200,000 individuals, correlating dietary habits with lung function and exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
- The findings indicate that for those with high fruit intake, the reduction in lung function due to air pollution was less severe compared to those consuming less fruit.
- Charities like Asthma + Lung UK welcome the findings but emphasise the need for stronger air quality targets and addressing unequal access to healthy foods.