Those suffering from a deadly lung disease could improve their quality of life by taking a medical-grade dose of a crucial vitamin.
Scientists have found that having a form of vitamin B3 helps reduce inflammation in the lungs of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Around 30,000 people die in Britain from COPD each year, making it the third deadliest disease.
The vitamin is found in small amounts in dairy products and is sold as a supplement to improve heart health and combat fatigue.
In the Copenhagen study, 20 COPD patients received four B3 tablets daily that contained much higher levels of the nutrient than found in supplements.
Compared with 20 COPD patients who did not receive the tablets, those who took B3 “significantly” reduced inflammatory cells in their lungs.
Experts said the study is small and more research is needed. They also emphasize that patients should not experiment with vitamin B3 on their own, as it could be dangerous.
Excessive consumption of the vitamin can cause headaches, vomiting and heart palpitations.
New research has shown that vitamin B3 can help relieve symptoms for people suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (file photo)
But it is hoped that the findings could alleviate some symptoms.
Around 1.2 million adults in Britain suffer from COPD and cases are expected to rise by 40 per cent within six years.
The condition occurs when the lungs and airways are damaged and inflamed. It is associated with smoking or exposure to industrial chemicals or dust. But some people can suffer from COPD for no clear reason.
The first symptoms are a persistent cough, excessive mucus production and difficulty breathing, which can disturb sleep.
Around 1.2 million adults in Britain suffer from COPD and cases are expected to rise by 40 per cent in six years (file photo)
The study looked at nicotinamide riboside, a form of B3. When it enters the body, it is converted into a molecule known as NAD+, which is believed to boost the immune system.
Research suggests that COPD patients have low levels of this molecule, so the immune system is weakened.
Lead researcher Professor Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, from the University of Copenhagen, said: “This study is important because inflammation can lead to a reduction in lung function.
“We hope this research paves the way for new treatment options for patients with COPD.”