Abstract
It is understood that a wide range of environmental issues is connected with nutrition, such as the relationship between multiple chemical sensitivity, sick building syndrome and nutrition intake, and the relationship between air pollution, second-hand smoke, and nutritional status. For example, vitamin D deficiency is a worldwide problem, but there are reports that air pollution is also a risk factor for the development of vitamin D deficiency. Exposure to air pollutants increases not only typical respiratory illnesses, but also oxidative stress and systemic inflammatory symptoms, and is associated with cardiovascular illness and obesity. It is undeniable that the detrimental effects of global warming on human health will culminate in the near future, and will be necessary for everybody to be aware of their nutritional intake and improve their dietary habits. Delay of detoxification has been proven to be a mechanism for the onset of multiple chemical sensitivity, and there is a report that blood levels of some nutrients involved in detoxification function are lower than in the general population. Patients are advised to become aware of the beneficial effects of nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, and glutathione that enhance detoxification function. Some patients reported that during the treatment for MCS, not only the symptoms of MCS but also other physical disorders were improved by reviewing the living environment, improving the diet and taking nutritional supplements. As there are so many factors affecting human health, it is an urgent issue not only for patients with multiple chemical sensitivity but also for the entire nation to review their dietary habits.
