Vitamin E and Vitamin C Reverse Emphysema

As most cases of emphysema, and other similar conditions are caused by smoking, the first step for emphysema treatment, if you are a smoker, is to quit smoking. But recent research has shown that supplements can also help. Antioxidants are proven to support lung health, therefore, supplemental antioxidants are coming on the stage of emphysema treatment.

The most important antioxidants for respiratory health are vitamin C and vitamin E. This information is based on the following results: those people supplementing with Vitamins C and E developed emphysema at a much lower rate than those who are not, all other things being equal. Even for those suffering severe emphysema, taking supplemental vitamin C and vitamin E can make breathing easier and prevent emphysema from worsening.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cell membranes and other fat-soluble parts of the body, such as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, from damage. It is also important for proper lung function. The most commonly-recommended amount of supplemental vitamin E for adults is 400 to 800 IU per day. However, some leading researchers suggest taking only 100 to 200 IU per day, since trials that have explored the long-term effects of different supplemental levels suggest no further benefit beyond that amount. You can take either a multivitamin or a separate supplement as long as it contains proper amounts of vitamin E.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that has a number of biological functions. The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin C in nonsmoking adults is 75 mg per day for women and 90 mg per day for men. For smokers, the amounts are 110 mg per day for women and 125 mg per day for men. Some vitamin C experts propose that adequate intake be considered 200 mg per day because of evidence that the cells of the human body cannot absorb any more vitamin C when larger daily amounts are used.

To obtain extra vitamin C and vitamin E, one way is to take supplements; another way is to put yourself on a diet rich in vitamin C and vitamin E. In terms of vitamin E, you can find it in wheat germ oil, nuts and seeds, whole grains, egg yolks, and leafy green vegetables. Originally, some vegetable oils contained considerable amounts of vitamin E, but after processing, much of the vitamin E would be removed. This kind of processed oil w is what you find in the supermarket. In addition, vitamin C can be found in broccoli, red peppers, currants, Brussels sprouts, parsley, potatoes, citrus fruit, and strawberries. The high amounts found in supplements, often 100 to 800 IU per day, are not obtainable from eating food. Therefore, it may be time to try supplements for natural treatment of emphysema.