Abstract

Introduction: A substantial body of evidence indicates that nutrition influences respiratory
health. Much of the nutrition research has focused on the intake of fruits, vegetables, and
antioxidant micronutrients, because lungs are subject to a wide range of oxidant induced insults
and because antioxidant defenses play an important role in protecting the lungs from damage.
Materials and methods: Seventy five patients with COPD were included in the study. In their
baseline clinical examination, malondialdehyde (MDA); red blood cell superoxide dismutase
(SOD) and erythrocyte glutathione peroxides (GPx) levels were measured. All the above
parameters were repeated after 12 weeks of supplementation with 1000 mg vitamin C daily.
Result: Serum MDA levels were significantly lowered, erythrocyte SOD and Gap activity were
significantly higher after supplementation of vitamin C. No significant improvement in FEV1
and FEV1/FVC was observed after 12 weeks of vitamin C supplementation.
Conclusion: The present study shows that the plasma lipid peroxide (MDA) levels were
decreased and antioxidants levels (GPx and SOD) increased after 12 weeks supplementation of
vitamin C in patients with COPD. Exogenous supplementation with vitamin C does not have any
significant effect on the spirometric measurements though it brings down the levels of MDA
showing attenuation of further damage.