Association of Carotenoid Intake with Pulmonary Function

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory disease causing more than three million deaths annually around the world. Previous studies have shown an increased incidence of COPD among smokers. Studies also have shown antioxidant nutrients such as carotenoids, have been associated with lower rates of COPD. OBJECTIVE: To investigate if the consumption of carotenoids and carotenoid-rich foods is associated with higher pulmonary function. METHODS: < 0.05. RESULTS: /FVC ratio. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests a possible role for the provitamin A carotenes, and their associated foods in improved pulmonary health.