A groundbreaking new study published in Advances in Nutrition reveals we might get essential nutrients not just from food, but from the very air we breathe. Researchers Flávia Fayet-Moore and Stephen R. Robinson introduce “aeronutrients,” which are absorbed through our lungs. This fascinating concept suggests that elements like iodine and zinc can enter our bodies through inhalation, potentially revolutionizing nutrition and public health.
What are Aeronutrients and How Do They Work?
The idea is simple yet profound. We get “gastronutrients” from the food we eat and digest. Now, scientists are proposing we also get “aeronutrients” from the air we inhale. With every breath, we could be supplementing our diet with vital vitamins and minerals.
Our bodies absorb these airborne nutrients through the vast network of tiny blood vessels in our nose, throat, and lungs. This pathway is surprisingly efficient. Unlike the digestive system, the lungs can absorb molecules up to 260 times larger without breaking them down.
This direct absorption means nutrients can enter the bloodstream much faster and reach the brain more effectively. It’s similar to how inhaled medicines work within seconds, often at lower doses than pills.
The Scientific Evidence Backing Inhaled Nutrients
This isn’t just a new theory; evidence has been building for decades. Studies from as far back as the 1960s found that laundry workers exposed to airborne iodine had higher levels of it in their bodies.
More recently, research in Ireland showed something remarkable. Children living near seaweed-rich coastlines had better iodine levels than other children, even with no differences in their diets. This strongly suggests they were breathing in iodine from the sea air.
Other studies show that minerals like zinc and manganese can also enter the brain through the nose’s olfactory system. This highlights both the potential benefits and the risks, as too much inhaled manganese has been linked to health issues in welders.
Which Nutrients Can We Breathe In?
The list of potential aeronutrients is growing as researchers look at air composition with a new perspective. Beyond the well-studied examples, scientists believe we might also absorb choline, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and even iron through the air.
Aerosolized vitamin B12 has already proven effective in treating deficiencies, which is great news for people who struggle to absorb it from food, such as older adults and vegans. The potential sources and benefits are varied, as shown below.
| Aeronutrient | Source | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Iodine | Seaweed-rich areas | Prevents iodine deficiency |
| Zinc | Various natural environments | Supports immune function |
| Manganese | Industrial areas | Essential in small amounts |
| Vitamin B12 | Aerosolized supplements | Treats B12 deficiency |
The Future of Breathing and What’s Next for Research
While the concept is exciting, the scientific community agrees that more research is needed. The immediate goal is to identify which airborne elements are beneficial and to determine safe and effective amounts for us to inhale. This is critical for controlled environments like hospitals, airplanes, and even future space stations.
Experts are calling for controlled studies to confirm the health benefits and safety of inhaling specific nutrients. This research could lead to new public health guidelines. Imagine doctors recommending a walk by the sea to boost iodine levels or developing inhaled supplements for those with nutrient deficiencies.
The idea has sparked both excitement and caution. As healthcare policy expert Dr. Alan Thompson states, “It’s a balance between innovation and safety. We need to ensure that these powerful concepts are explored responsibly to truly benefit public health.” Embracing aeronutrients could change how we view the simple act of breathing, turning fresh air into a key part of our nutritional plan.
