Diet and Lung Health

Abstract Diet may act as a significant contributor to lung health. The intake of vitamins, minerals, antioxidant components, fatty acids, probiotics, and prebiotics and the adherence to specific dietary patterns have been associated with the pathophysiology and development of respiratory diseases. This chapter summarizes recent research evidence from the field and highlights the importance of a healthy diet in primary and secondary prevention. It presents available data on the association of dietary factors with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lower respiratory tract infections, tuberculosis, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, and interstitial lung diseases. The possible roles of maternal diet during pregnancy and diet in early life are also addressed. The chapter closes with a short suggestion of research challenges in the field of diet and lung health.