Fruit-Rich Diet May Protect Lungs from Air Pollution Damage

Eating more fruit may help shield the lungs from the harmful effects of air pollution, according to research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Amsterdam. Using data from nearly 200,000 participants in the UK Biobank, researchers examined links between diet, air pollution exposure, and lung function. They found that individuals—particularly women—who consumed four or more portions of fruit daily experienced smaller declines in lung capacity (FEV1) from exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) compared to those who ate less fruit. The team suggests that fruit’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation triggered by pollution. Although the protective effect was more evident in women, likely due to higher fruit intake, the findings reinforce the importance of a plant-rich diet for respiratory health. Researchers emphasize, however, that healthy eating should complement—not replace—strong environmental policies to reduce air pollution exposure.

07-10-2025