Researchers Link Vitamins A and D to Healthier Lungs in Asthma
Higher blood levels of vitamins A and D may be associated with better lung function in people with asthma, according to a study published in Thorax. Researchers also found that higher vitamin D levels in adults were linked to slower biological aging, highlighting a possible role for these nutrients in long-term respiratory health.
The study included 1,165 children from the Genetic Epidemiology of Asthma in Costa Rica Study (GACRS) and 1,041 adults from the Omic Determinants of Longitudinal Lung Function in Asthma (ODOLLFA) study.
Researchers measured blood levels of vitamins A and D, along with epigenetic markers such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and DNA methylation, which influence gene activity. Lung function was assessed using forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and the FEV1/FVC ratio.
Children and adults with higher vitamin A levels consistently showed better lung function, including higher FEV1 and FVC values, than those with lower levels. Among adults, vitamin D levels of at least 30 ng/mL were also associated with better lung function and reduced signs of epigenetic aging, suggesting that adequate vitamin D may help slow biological aging in people with asthma.
Further analysis identified miRNAs regulating 248 genes linked to vitamins A and D. These genes appear to play important roles in inflammation, lung function, and aging, indicating that epigenetic mechanisms may partly explain how these vitamins influence respiratory health.
The researchers note that this is the first study to integrate vitamin A and D levels with lung function and epigenetic markers in both children and adults with asthma. However, because the study was observational, it cannot establish cause and effect.
Experts say further research is needed to determine whether improving vitamin status can directly enhance lung function or slow biological aging in people with asthma.
REFERENCE: Sharma R, Kachroo P, Mendez KM, et al.; The impact of vitamins A and D on lung function and regulatory epigenetics in adult and childhood asthma; Thorax Published Online First: 30 June 2026; doi: 10.1136/thorax-2025-223756
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