10 Supplements for Stronger Lungs and Easier Breathing

Your lungs bring oxygen into your body and remove carbon dioxide as a waste product. However, air pollution, smoking, and lung diseases can compromise lung function. Specific dietary supplements have been suggested to support lung health through their anti-inflammatory properties.

Supplements that boost lung health range from vitamins to minerals to nutraceuticals and herbs.

1. Vitamin C

Oxidative stress is a prominent contributor to lung infection, and studies show that vitamin C can limit inflammation. An analysis of a group of studies found that vitamin C supplementation significantly lowered the death rate in people with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as well as the severity of the disease. However, large-scale studies are necessary to validate the results. 

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease characterized by progressive airway obstruction. Studies have shown that supplementing vitamin C in people with COPD can improve lung function by decreasing oxidative damage. Larger and more diverse study populations are necessary to clarify the results.

2. Vitamin D

Besides maintaining bone health and aiding calcium absorption, vitamin D is vital for immunity and inflammation. 

One study showed that vitamin D3 supplementation did not protect against upper respiratory infections but did protect against moderate or severe COPD exacerbation in those with low blood levels of vitamin D. The study was limited in that vitamin D was dosed intermittently in the trials as opposed to daily. Further studies are necessary to compare the effects of these two dosing regimens on clinical outcomes. 

Similarly, a review of the results from a group of studies revealed that vitamin D supplements reduced asthma exacerbation in participants with low blood levels of vitamin D. Further studies are necessary to explore if vitamin D would reduce worsening asthma in those with normal vitamin D levels.

3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a potent fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A review of studies suggests that dietary vitamin E intake may reduce the risk of lung cancer by reducing oxidative stress. The results may not apply to other regions because the studies were limited to America, Europe, and Asia. 

Vitamin E supplementation has also been shown to improve lung function in people with exercise-induced asthma, a condition in which the airway narrows during physical activity.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in reducing lung inflammation. Several studies have indicated that omega-3 fatty acids improve lung function and reduce the length of stay in intensive care units (ICU) for people with acute lung injury caused by trauma, shock, or serious infection. However, larger studies are necessary to confirm the results.

5. N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is known as an antidote for Tylenol (acetaminophen) overdose and is also a mucolytic (a drug that thins and loosens mucus), anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant agent. 

Due to its ability to thin mucus, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have approved NAC as a treatment of choice in cystic fibrosis. This genetic disease causes a build-up of thick mucus. In COPD, treatment with NAC has been shown to reduce the worsening of the condition.

Bronchiectasis is a lung condition in which the airways become damaged, increasing the risk of lung infections. Treatment with NAC can reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function. Larger clinical trials are warranted to confirm such promising preliminary results. 

6. Magnesium

Though specific asthma guidelines do not recommend the routine use of magnesium sulfate for asthma exacerbations, magnesium sulfate given intravenously (through the vein) can be taken when standard treatments have failed. However, findings on treating acute asthma with intravenous magnesium sulfate are conflicting. 

7. Mullein

Mullein has been used in Spanish folk medicine to treat various ailments, including respiratory problems, such as the following:

• Hoarseness
• Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)
• Cold
• Cough
• Asthma
• Bronchitis (inflammation of the airways)

Mullein’s relief properties may be due to its anti-cough and expectorant (an agent that loosens and thins mucus) effects.

Though rigorous human clinical studies on mullein are necessary, a test-tube study found that mullein extract blocks the growth of bacteria involved in respiratory infections.

8. Boswellia

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Boswellia has traditionally been used in folk medicine to treat cough, asthma, and other chronic inflammatory lung diseases.

One study showed that Boswellia reduces the need for inhalation therapy with corticosteroids and medications that help open up the airways in people with asthma, suggesting that Boswellia might help control the inflammation process in asthma.

Laboratory studies indicated that boswellic acids reduce the production of inflammatory markers that destroy lung tissues. Due to its anti-inflammatory activities, Boswellia may be beneficial for preventing lung lesions caused by COVID-19. However, clinical studies are necessary to confirm the results.

9. Probiotics

Emerging evidence suggests a meaningful connection between the gut microbiome and the lungs, called the “gut-lung axis.” In one study, the probiotic formula consisting of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains and Pediococcus acidilactici strain has been shown to reduce COVID-19 symptom duration, viral load, and lung infiltrates. The study subjects were of Hispanic ethnicity; the results may not apply to other populations. Studies involving a diverse population are needed to clarify the results. 

Synbiotics, which refer to a combination of probiotics (beneficial live microorganisms) and prebiotics (food for the probiotics), have been found to prevent respiratory tract infections based on a review of several studies. Further studies investigating the optimal doses, types of prebiotics, and probiotic strains are warranted.

10. Quercetin

Naturally found in certain foods such as apples and onions, quercetin is a flavonoid compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In people with COVID-19, supplementation of quercetin phytosome (the form of quercetin with enhanced absorption) has been shown to increase the virus’s clearance, reduce symptom recurrence, and improve disease biomarkers. However, larger and more rigorous studies are necessary to validate these preliminary results.

How to Choose a Lung Supplement

When choosing a lung health supplement, look for independent certifications that verify that the supplements comply with specific quality standards.

It is also essential to read the ingredients to ensure that the supplement does not contain any ingredients you are allergic to and to follow the directions on the label on how to take such a supplement appropriately. 

Suppose you have certain medical conditions or take prescription or over-the-counter medications or other dietary supplements. In that case, you may wish to speak with your healthcare provider to check for any disease-supplement, drug-supplement, or supplement-supplement interactions.

Safety and Side Effects

Possible Allergic Reactions

Before taking any supplements for lung health, check the ingredients on the supplement label and avoid any ingredients that you are allergic to.

Precautions

Some people may need to exercise additional caution when taking specific supplements.

• Vitamin C: If you have hemochromatosis, which is a condition that causes the body to store too much iron, high doses of vitamin C could worsen iron overload and damage body tissues.
• Vitamin D: Too much vitamin D can lead to excessive calcium levels in the blood and urine, resulting in kidney stones, kidney failure, and irregular heartbeats.
• Vitamin E: Vitamin E from food is safe. However, high doses from supplements may increase bleeding risk. The recommended upper limit for adults is 1,000 mg/day. However, even lower doses may be harmful.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: High doses of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and EPA (omega-3 fatty acids) may suppress immune function and increase bleeding time. Long-term use of 4 grams per day of omega-3 supplements may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation in those at risk or with heart or blood vessel issues.
• N-acetylcysteine: NAC given through the vein might cause anaphylactoid reactions, such as rash, low blood pressure, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
• Magnesium: The risk of magnesium toxicity from taking very large doses increases with poor kidney function or kidney failure because the kidneys are less able to remove excess magnesium.
• Mullein: Research on the safety of mullein is unclear. To be on the safe side, avoid it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. 
• Boswellia: Boswellia has been noted to increase menstrual flow and, therefore, may cause abortion. Avoid boswellia if you are pregnant. 
• Probiotics: If you have a weakened immune system, you should speak with your healthcare provider before taking probiotics due to the risk of blood infections. Because of the risk of infections of the inner lining of the heart chambers and heart valve, probiotics should be avoided before dental or surgical procedures if you have damaged heart valves.
• Quercetin: Avoid quercetin supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding due to the lack of safety data in such settings. Since quercetin might worsen kidney problems, avoid quercetin if you have kidney problems.

Interactions

Some supplements may interact with medications or other supplements, such as the following:

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C might interact with cancer treatments. If you are undergoing cancer treatments, check with your healthcare provider before taking vitamin C supplements.
• Vitamin D: Because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, weight-loss drugs such as Xenical and Alli (orlistat) can reduce its absorption.
• Vitamin E: Taking vitamin E with blood thinners such as Jantoven (warfarin) can increase the risk of bleeding. Because vitamin E is an antioxidant, it may impact the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Taking high doses of omega-3 fatty acids with blood thinners may increase your bleeding risk.
• N-acetylcysteine: NAC can reduce the elimination of various medications, such as Pravachol (pravastatin), Diovan (valsartan), erythromycin, and others. NAC’s efficacy can decrease when combined with tetracycline, an antibiotic.
• Magnesium: Magnesium can decrease the absorption of Fosamax (alendronate), some antibiotics, and thyroid medications. Diuretics or water pills, such as Lasix (furosemide), can increase magnesium loss in the urine. Acid-suppressing drugs, such as Prilosec (omeprazole), can cause low magnesium levels when taken for prolonged periods. Take magnesium at least two to six hours away from medications.
• Mullein: Information on mullein interactions with medications and other supplements is scarce. Take caution if you take prescription medications. 
• Boswellia: A test-tube study showed that boswellia extract changes liver enzymes responsible for the way the body processes medications. The experiment was conducted in a test tube, so the interaction in humans is unclear. 
• Probiotics: Take probiotics at least two hours before or after antibiotics to prevent the potential for antibiotics to kill off the probiotics. 
• Quercetin: Quercetin might lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Take caution when combining it with medications and supplements that also lower these levels.

Side Effects

Some supplements may have side effects, such as the following:

• Vitamin C: The most common side effects of vitamin C are diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D is generally tolerable, but taking too much can increase calcium levels, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, kidney stones, and more.
• Vitamin E: High doses of vitamin E can cause serious side effects, such as bleeding.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Common side effects of omega-3 supplements include an unpleasant taste, bad breath, heartburn, and more.
• N-acetylcysteine: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of NAC.
• Magnesium: Taking too much magnesium can cause diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramping.
• Mullein: Lab studies show that mullein can have sedative effects. Whether such an effect applies to humans is unclear, but take caution if you take medications or other supplements that make you feel drowsy or sleepy.
• Boswellia: No serious side effects were observed in the studies. However, more studies are warranted to examine its safety. 
• Probiotics: Gas is a minor side effect of probiotics.
• Quercetin: Some studies of quercetin reported nausea, headache, mild tingling, and stomach complaints.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Lung Health Alongside Supplements

Besides taking supplements, you can implement lifestyle tips to support lung health, including the following:

• Avoid smoking and vaping.
• Avoid secondhand smoke.
• Reduce exposure to air pollutants.
• Wear a mask if you are sick or around those who are sick.
• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a well-balanced diet.
• Ensure adequate hydration.
• Practice deep breathing.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any breathing problems or symptoms related to a lung condition.

Some symptoms to watch out for include:

• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chronic mucus production
• Wheezing
• Coughing up blood
• Chronic chest pain

Summary

Most of the supplements that support lung health exert their benefit through decreasing inflammation. However, more human clinical studies are needed to evaluate their safety. 

Discussing your breathing symptoms with your healthcare provider and incorporating some healthy lifestyle changes to help support your lung health is important.