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When you step outside and take a deep breath in nature, you might feel more relaxed and refreshed. But what if there’s more to that sensation than simply escaping the hustle of modern life? A growing body of scientific evidence suggests that the air we breathe could also be a source of essential nutrients—so-called “aeronutrients”—that supplement our diets.
In a recent article published in Advances in Nutrition, researchers argue that humans can absorb essential nutrients like iodine, zinc, manganese, and some vitamins directly from the air. These nutrients, distinct from the food-based “gastronutrients” we consume, are absorbed through the tiny blood vessels in our nose, lungs, and throat, providing an additional, often overlooked, avenue for maintaining health.
The Power of Breathing
We breathe in approximately 9,000 liters of air every day—438 million liters over a lifetime—and unlike eating, this process is constant. The nutrients we inhale, even in minute concentrations, can accumulate over time. Historically, air quality research has focused on pollutants, aiming to filter out harmful substances. However, the presence of beneficial nutrients in the air has been largely ignored.
Inhaling substances through the lungs is a far more efficient process than digestion. The lungs can absorb molecules much larger than those that can be taken up through the gut, making the respiratory system an ideal entry point for nutrients. Substances like nicotine and anesthetics, which are absorbed through the lungs, enter the bloodstream and affect the body in seconds at lower concentrations than would be possible if they were ingested orally.
The Science Behind Aeronutrients
Evidence supporting the idea of aeronutrients has been around for decades. Research from the 1960s revealed that laundry workers exposed to iodine in the air showed elevated iodine levels in their blood and urine. More recently, studies in Ireland have shown that children living near seaweed-rich coastal areas, where atmospheric iodine levels are higher, had significantly higher iodine levels in their urine. These children were also less likely to be iodine-deficient compared to their peers living in areas with lower iodine levels. Importantly, their iodine intake from food did not differ, suggesting that they were obtaining iodine through the air.
Other studies have shown that nutrients like manganese and zinc, which can enter the brain through the neurons responsible for our sense of smell, might also be absorbed via the air. This is particularly relevant for manganese, which is essential for health in small amounts but can be toxic in excess, as seen in welders who inhale high levels of manganese fumes.
Moreover, the olfactory system’s cilia (hair-like structures) have receptors that can bind to various nutrients, including vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and iron. Even aerosolized vitamin B12 has been shown to help treat vitamin B12 deficiency—a condition prevalent among vegans, the elderly, and those with alcohol use disorders.
What’s Next for Aeronutrients?
Despite this compelling evidence, much remains to be explored. We need to identify which specific components of air in natural environments like forests, green spaces, and coastal areas are beneficial for our health. While much of the research so far has focused on pollutants and allergens, there’s a growing interest in investigating how components of clean, natural air might help prevent nutrient deficiencies.
The potential for creating aerosolized forms of essential nutrients like vitamin D could be an innovative solution for addressing widespread deficiencies. For instance, vitamin B12 in aerosol form has already been shown to be safe and effective, suggesting that other nutrients might be successfully delivered in a similar manner.
As we learn more, we may find that aeronutrients could play a role in preventing diseases related to urbanization and modern living. Future health guidelines could recommend spending time in nature not only for its mental and physical health benefits but also for the unique nutrients it provides.
Ultimately, the discovery of aeronutrients could revolutionize our understanding of nutrition, expanding it beyond the plate and into the very air we breathe. As we continue to explore this fascinating area of research, we may find that breathing fresh air isn’t just refreshing—it’s nourishing too.
