Although smoking is the primary cause of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD), new research published in the British Medical Journal
(BMJ) suggests that a poor diet can also be a contributing factor. COPD refers
to a group of conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema and may cause
symptoms such as chronic cough, wheezing, excessive mucus production, fatigue
and shortness of breath during daily activities. Participants in this study
filled out a food frequency questionnaire, and those with a diet containing a
high intake of vegetables, whole grains, polyunsaturated fats, nuts and omega-3 fatty
acids, a low intake of red and processed meats, minimal refined grains and
sugary drinks, and moderate alcohol consumption were a third less likely to
develop COPD. These results were conclusive even after accounting for each
participants BMI, age, smoking status and ethnicity. These researchers also
hypothesized that antioxidants may be the agent responsible for the decreased
risk of COPD, and antioxidants would be obtained in a healthy balanced diet.
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