Researchers from the University of Copenhagen report that consuming leafy greens such as broccoli, spinach, and kale can support lung health and may help reduce the risk of asthma. The findings emerge from a study published in ERJ Open Research, a journal that highlights work in respiratory medicine and related fields.
The vegetables highlighted are notably high in vitamin K, a nutrient linked to blood clotting and wound healing. Beyond these roles, vitamin K appears to play a part in maintaining healthy lung function. Observational patterns in the study suggest that lower vitamin K status is associated with diminished respiratory performance and a higher prevalence of conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among participants.
In this analysis, researchers conducted a meta-analysis that pooled data from a broad health and lifestyle assessment, encompassing roughly 4,000 adults. The aggregate data indicate a correlation: individuals with lower vitamin K levels tended to show poorer results on standard lung function tests and were more likely to report respiratory conditions than those whose vitamin K status was within a normal range. The researchers emphasize that while vitamin K is just one piece of a larger nutritional picture, these results contribute to a growing body of evidence linking diet quality to respiratory health outcomes.
In a separate line of inquiry, ancient scientists documented observations about fungi and cognitive health. Specifically, mushrooms have been described in early scientific texts as having a potential role in supporting memory and reducing the risk of dementia. Contemporary studies continue to explore how certain mushroom species might influence neural pathways, though evidence varies by species and study design. This historical note underscores a broader interest in how dietary choices relate to brain health alongside physical well-being. [Source: ERJ Open Research; historical notes on mushrooms and dementia are referenced in the literature]