Our lungs play a vital role in helping our body function well. Due to some harmful elements like air pollutants, smoking, etc, the risk of respiratory health problems like asthma, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis and pneumonia among others are increase in people day by day. A good way to keep your lungs healthy is by engaging in regular exercises and eating a healthy diet.
Some foods contain nutrients help to improve conditions in the air passageways, which can be helpful if you have asthma, allergies, or are trying to quit smoking. So here are some foods which help to reduce all lungs problems and help You breathe better.
1. Apples
Researchers have linked good lung function with high intakes of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, all of which are present in apples. Apples come packed with antioxidants that help keep your lungs healthy.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is a highly antioxidant green vegetable in vitamin C content, carotenoids, folate and phytochemicals that fight damaging elements in the lungs. Broccoli is said to have an active constituent called L-sulforaphane, which tricks the cells to switch on the anti-inflammatory genes that further avoids respiratory conditions. It is one of the best greens for lung health, especially in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.
3. Walnuts
Walnuts are a vegetarian source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eating a handful of them can help fight asthma and other respiratory conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to be anti-inflammatory nutrients with protective effects in inflammatory ailments.
4. Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which help fight cell damaging free radicals. In fact, Acai and blueberry are two of the top sources, however cranberries, grapes, and strawberries are also good for the lungs.
5. Cayenne Pepper
The capsaicin in cayenne pepper helps stimulate secretions and protects mucus membranes from upper and lower respiratory tract. It is best to drink cayenne pepper tea that is also a great source of beta-carotene, which has great effects on reducing the many symptoms of asthma.
6. Olive oil
The mono and polyunsaturated fats and phytonutrients found in olive oil are great for more than just your skin, hair, and heart; they also play a role in lung health. Olive oil may help fight the health risks associated with air pollution like increased blood pressure and impaired blood vessels—factors that can reduce your oxygen supply, make your heart pump faster and make breathing more difficult.
7. Poultry
Chicken, turkey, and other small poultry birds can benefit your lungs, these foods are high in lung health boosting vitamin A. The reason why vitamin A in this form is so beneficial, is because our body may absorb animal-based versions of vitamin A better than plant-based versions.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties; thanks to the curcumin compound present in it. This compound helps relieve inflammation of the airways and tightness of chest associated with asthma.
9. Water
Water is the best way to detoxify your body processes. Moreover, dry lungs are prone to irritation and increased inflammation; therefore, you must drink six to eight glasses of water to keep yourself well-hydrated.
10. Green tea
A hot mug of green tea is loaded with antioxidants that calm the body, decrease inflammation, and promote better healing. But the star of the bunch is quercetin, an antioxidant that acts as a natural antihistamine. This means it slows the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals in the body that can cause allergy symptoms. The hot water is also great for soothing your throat and protects your lungs from irritation by flushing out mucous membranes
