Researchers at Edith Cowan University have found that consuming green leafy vegetables, rich in vitamin K1, can improve lung health. This study highlights the relationship between increased vitamin K1 in the diet and a lower rate of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma and COPD, have a significant impact globally.

The study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, analyzed data from 179,062 participants over a period of ten and a half years, concluding that higher intake of vitamin K1 is associated with better lung function.

“While asthma and COPD can be controlled with available treatments, neither condition has a cure, underscoring the need for effective prevention strategies,” the authors stressed.

Key results of the study

Associate Professor Marc Sim, who participated in the study, indicates that vitamin K could activate a protein that contributes to the flexibility of lung tissue, reports Fox News Digital. This discovery highlights the importance of preventive strategies, given that both asthma and COPD lack a definitive cure.

Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli are suggested as an affordable way to increase vitamin K1 intake, with other relevant foods including chard and Brussels sprouts.

Other sources of vitamin K

In addition to green leafy vegetables, there are several useful sources of vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), especially vegetables, some oils, and certain animal foods in smaller quantities.

Other vegetables rich in K1

Herbs, legumes and cereals

Fruits with vitamin K1

Animal foods and oils

You may also be interested in:

· Nutritional comparison: almonds, walnuts and pistachios, which is healthier? · Banana, banana or plantain: a wonderful source of energy, but not recommended for everyone · Be careful with these 4 fruits that can ruin your sleep!