Diet appears to play a role in the development, severity, and management of some respiratory diseases, especially when atopy (immune response) and airway inflammation are important factors (as is the case in COPD and asthma). Diet-related evidence is primarily sourced from epidemiological and some preclinical animal studies, but experimental human evidence is lacking. In general, high fruit and vegetable intake, a Mediterranean diet, and omega-3 fatty acid intake have shown benefits in respiratory diseases, whereas Western diets and fast food diets have shown adverse associations. [1]
How could diet affect respiratory diseases?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Diet influences the development and management of respiratory diseases, particularly in conditions like COPD and asthma, and high fruit and vegetable intake, a Mediterranean diet, and omega-3 fatty acids show benefits. Conversely, Western and fast food diets are associated with negative outcomes in respiratory health.