A new study has revealed that vitamin C may help protect against health complications caused by traffic-related air pollution, wildfire smoke, and dust storms, including lung diseases and other related medical issues.
According to the findings, vitamin C plays an important role in reducing the harmful effects of pollution and may help lower the risk of respiratory illnesses linked to poor air quality.
According to a medical website, experts from the School of Life Sciences at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research conducted the study, concluding that vitamin C could help prevent multiple health complications, particularly those associated with polluted urban environments.
The researchers closely examined PM 2.5, the tiny airborne particles commonly found in urban pollution, which are known to cause inflammation in the lungs and reduce mitochondrial function. The study highlighted the protective effects of vitamin C against these pollution-induced health threats.
According to the experts, PM 2.5 levels in major cities often exceed safe limits, and even low-level exposure can contribute to a variety of lung diseases. These conditions include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer—diseases that pose serious health risks to urban populations.
The research team discovered that antioxidant vitamin C supplements can significantly reduce the negative effects of low-level exposure to PM 2.5. They found that vitamin C effectively lowers oxidative stress and inflammation caused by these particles, helping reduce harmful substances in cells and protecting mitochondria from damage.
Experts recommended that individuals exposed to air pollution and those suffering from lung diseases consider taking vitamin C in appropriate amounts. However, they emphasized the importance of consulting medical professionals before starting supplementation to ensure proper dosage and prevent complications, especially for vulnerable patients.
