Association Of Carotenoid Intake With Pulmonary Function

Lung function gradually declines as adults age, which can make breathing more difficult. Previous studies have reported enhanced lung function among older adults with high intake of carotenoid-rich foods. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between carotenoid-rich diet and lung function. Data were taken from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, which included approximately 15,000 individuals aged 45-64 years at baseline from each of four counties in the United States. Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) data were used to assess dietary intake of carotenoid-rich foods. Total carotenoids intake was calculated by adding five specific carotenoids – a-carotene, ß-carotene, ß-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, and lutein/zeaxanthin. Pulmonary function was evaluated as the ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second [FEV1] and forced vital capacity [FVC]. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the association between intake of carotenoids and pulmonary function. The association between the total carotenoid intake with pulmonary function was marginally positively significant. a-carotene, ß-carotene, and ß-cryptoxanthin intakes were individually significantly associated with a higher FEV1/FVC ratio in study participants. Dietary sources of pro-vitamin A carotenoids include yellow/orange fruits and vegetables such as oranges and sweet potatoes. Higher intake of these foods may improve pulmonary function.