Vitamin C May Decrease Air Pollution Effects

Article written by guest writer Rin Mitchell

What’s the Latest Development?

According to researchers, it is possible that Vitamin C can fight the effects of pollution. For many, pollution can cause respiratory issues like asthma. About 200 patients between the ages of 54-74, as well as some 18 year olds, who had asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and low levels of Vitamin C, were observed by researchers at a London hospital. They “found that those with low levels of vitamin C had an increased risk of breathing problems on days when outdoor air pollution levels were high.” Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can protect the body against free radicals, which damage cells. 

What’s the Big Idea?

The consumption of a diet rich in Vitamin C could stave off respiratory issues like asthma caused by pollution. Researchers examined levels of “course particulate matter” in patients suffering from asthma or COPD. “Results showed that with every increase in course particulate matter of 10 micrograms per cubic meter (mcg/m3), there was a 35 percent increased risk of hospital admission forpeople with asthma or COPD.”