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Review
. 2021 Mar 25;21(4):24.
doi: 10.1007/s11882-021-01003-0.

Nutritional Factors in Occupational Lung Disease

Mia Isaak  1 , Arzu Ulu  2 , Abigail Osunde  2 , Tara M Nordgren  2 , Corrine Hanson  3
Affiliations
Review

Nutritional Factors in Occupational Lung Disease

Mia Isaak et al. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Lung diseases such as asthma and COPD are major public health issues and related to occupational exposures. While therapies to limit the development and progression of these diseases are limited, nutrition interventions could offer potential alternatives to mediate the inflammation associated with these diseases. This is a narrative review of the current state of relevant nutrients on inflammation and respiratory outcomes associated with occupational exposures.

Recent findings: Relevant nutrients that have been investigated in recent years include omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, zinc, vitamin D, dairy products, and antioxidants. These nutrients have demonstrated the potential to prevent or modify the adverse outcomes associated with occupational exposures, primarily in preclinical studies. Current therapies for respiratory consequences associated with occupational exposures are limited; therefore, addressing strategies for reducing inflammation is important in improving quality of life and limiting health care costs. More human studies are warranted to determine the effectiveness of nutrition as an intervention.

Keywords: Asthma; COPD; Occupational lung disease; Omega-3 fatty acid; Vitamin D; Zinc.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest relevant to this manuscript.

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