Supplements and Vitamins to Protect and Improve Respiratory and Lung Health

Tiger Milk Mushroom is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine for its respiratory health benefits. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable supplement for those with respiratory conditions.

Research suggests that Tiger Milk Mushroom can help reduce inflammation in the airways, enhance immune function, and protect lung tissue from oxidative damage caused by environmental toxins and respiratory infections (6). A review in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms highlighted the mushroom’s potential in managing conditions such as asthma, COPD, and allergic rhinitis, making it a natural option for improving lung health (5).

Tiger Milk Mushroom is available in various forms, including capsules and powders, and can be taken as a daily supplement to support respiratory health. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions or those looking to enhance their lung health naturally.

5. N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a powerful antioxidant and a precursor to glutathione, a critical antioxidant in the body. NAC helps thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to clear and reducing the risk of respiratory infections (10). It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage chronic respiratory conditions like COPD and bronchitis (11).

A meta-analysis in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that NAC supplementation improved lung function and reduced the frequency of exacerbations in patients with chronic bronchitis and COPD (1). NAC is commonly used as a supplement and is available over the counter in many countries.

Conclusion

Maintaining good respiratory and lung health is essential, especially for those with chronic conditions or frequent respiratory infections. While a healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial, supplements such as Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids, Tiger Milk Mushroom, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can provide additional support. These supplements offer various benefits, including reducing inflammation, boosting immune function, and protecting lung tissue from damage. As always, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

References

1. Cazzola, M., Calzetta, L., & Rogliani, P. (2015). N-acetylcysteine in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 191(5), 503-509.
2. Hemilä, H., & Chalker, E. (2013). Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 4(3), 50-60.
3. Martineau, A. R., Jolliffe, D. A., Hooper, R. L., Greenberg, L., Aloia, J. F., Bergman, P., … & Griffiths, C. J. (2017). Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory infections: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. Journal of Respiratory Research, 18(1), 1-19.
4. Mickleborough, T. D., & Rundell, K. W. (2005). Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids in asthma- and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. European Respiratory Journal, 26(2), 309-319.
5. Ng, S. T., Chan, W. H., & Sin, K. W. (2015). Antioxidant properties of Lignosus rhinocerotis (Tiger Milk Mushroom). Journal of Mycology, 2015(2015), Article ID 632695.
6. Tan, C. S., Ng, S. T., & Lum, S. K. (2017). Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of Tiger Milk Mushroom: A review. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 19(4), 327-341.
7. Fowler, A. A., et al. (2019). Effect of Vitamin C Infusion on Organ Failure and Biomarkers of Inflammation and Vascular Injury in Patients with Sepsis and Severe Acute Respiratory Failure. JAMA, 322(13), 1261–1270
8. Janssens, W., et al. (2010). Vitamin D Deficiency is Highly Prevalent in COPD and Predicts Hospitalization and Mortality. Thorax, 65(3), 215–220.
9. Barnes, P. J. (2016). Inflammatory Mechanisms in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 138(1), 16–27.
10. Ziment, I. (1986). Acetylcysteine: A Drug with an Interesting Past and a Fascinating Future. Respiration, 50(Suppl 1), 26–30.
11. Grandjean, E. M., et al. (2000). Efficacy of Oral Long-Term N-acetylcysteine in Chronic Bronchitis: A Meta-Analysis of Published Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials. Clinical Therapeutics, 22(2), 209–221.