Protection from air pollution - in your medicine cabinet

Certain supplements may help protect the body from pollutants says an article in Food Quality News.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been promoted for their heart-healthy and anti-cancer benefits, and soy is known as a vegetarian protein source with anti-cancer properties. But new research suggests even more powerful benefits: that omega-3s (found in fish oil) and soy supplements may actually provide the heart with protection from certain damaging effects of air pollution.

According to the article, exposure to vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions is known to negatively affect the heart. In addition, particulate matter (PM) associated with these emissions may prevent the body's natural antioxidant enzymes from performing their functions properly. Omega-3 or soy supplementation may increase those natural enzyme levels, hence providing added protection against these toxins.

For additional information, check out our pollution and healthy living sections.