The lungs are an important organ of the body. It is crucial for breathing and is very sensitive. It is important to take care of the lungs so that one can function in daily life properly as lungs help in breathing which is the crucial and the most vital need for the body to stay alive. Sometimes people face respiratory issues, ailments, and diseases. People who smoke often are also prone to lungs problem that is why it is important to take care of the lungs, and eat nutritious food while being considerate about the health of the lungs.
11 best foods for lung health
Apple
Apple is a fruit that is very nutritious and full of minerals and vitamins like antioxidants, vitamin C, and flavonoids. Consuming an apple can keep a person away from the risk of asthma and cancer. It is also observed that eating five or more apples can help in making the lung function more smoothly, keeps lung health, and reduces the risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases. All this is possible because the nutritious vitamins in apple play an important role in making the lungs healthy.
Turmeric
The dietary nutrients can help in making the lungs healthy and strong so that they can properly function and stay away from diseases. Turmeric is an important spice which helps in maintaining the overall health of the body. This is because it has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. The curcumin which is present in turmeric is also known to be quite beneficial for improving lung health. According to the U.S. Library and National Institute of Health, a study conducted of 2,478 people found that the intake of curcumin in turmeric was closely associated with improved lung function. Thus, it is necessary to include spices like turmeric in the diet which can help in improving the functioning of the lungs.
Salmon
Salmon is beneficial for the lungs, it tends to have some amazing fatty acids and oils which can help in keeping the lung healthy, wealthy, and fit. The Omega-3 fatty acids present in salmon helps in reducing the inflammation and also helps in fighting the bacteria. The presence of Omega–3 Fatty Acid in Salmon can help in smooth functioning and acts as a cleanser.
Garlic
Garlic is an important spice, which has an amazing aroma and helps in keeping the food and meals balanced in terms of nutrition. It has a variety of benefits. It helps in reducing the damage caused by free radicals in the lungs and it also helps in reducing the inflammation in the lungs and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are a nutritious and beneficial source of food. Whole grains are a heavy meal and help in keeping the body healthy and the stomach full. Whole grains can include food items like white whole wheat, brown rice, and quinoa. These food items have less carbon dioxide production, thus less stress on the lungs. Food items like pasta, muffins, and other items that are rich in carbohydrates can increase the production of carbon dioxide in the body and thus ultimately increase stress on the lungs. Thus, it is advised to have whole-grain food.
Nuts
Nuts are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Nuts happen to have the beneficial vitamin, known as Vitamin E, which helps in reducing inflammation in the lungs and body. Nuts help in boosting the immune system, promote the health of the red blood cells and the red blood cells help in increasing the level of oxygen in the body. The promotion of red blood cells can help in smoothening the whole breathing process, because when oxygen is more than there is a sufficient supply of oxygen which helps in keeping the blood vessels of the lungs free from getting constricted. Thus, nuts are a good source of food for healthy lungs and respiratory system.
Pepper
Pepper is a source of Vitamin C, it helps in making the immune system of the body strong. Peppers are the richest source of vitamin C and it also acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Those who intake a large quantity of pepper have better functioning lungs than those who take less or do not take it at all.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an important food item, it is the source of a variety of vitamins and minerals that can help in the better functioning of the lungs, yoghurt can also help in maintaining good health of the lungs. It has calcium, potassium, selenium, and phosphorus.
These nutrients and vitamins help in boosting the health and function of the lungs. According to a study conducted among adults in Japan, intake of yogurt can reduce the risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease to about 35%. Thus, the intake of yogurt is beneficial for the body and the lung.
Barley
Barley is a very nutritious whole grain. It is high in fiber, which is a plus point for the lungs. It keeps the stomach full the whole day and shows a protective effect on the lungs and respiratory health. It can also help in reducing the mortality rate from respiratory diseases at a large rate.
Lentils
Lentils are a rich source of vitamins and minerals for the body. Lentils are high in nutrients that are associated with promoting lung health. The nutrients present in lentils are copper, potassium, magnesium, and iron. These nutrients act as a cover for the lungs and protect the respiratory system from diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease which is very harmful and life-threatening in some cases.
Coffee
Coffee has caffeine which is an important element that can help in promoting lung health. Coffee has caffeine and antioxidants that keep the body healthy, protect lung function, improve lung functioning, and protect against any respiratory diseases. The caffeine present in coffee might help you in staying energetic but it also acts as a vasodilator that means it helps in opening up the blood vessels, for the free flow of oxygen and blood.
Bad Food For Lungs
Acidic food and drinks should be avoided for those who have lung diseases or COPD. This is because the acid can, move to the esophagus which can make the lungs of people with lung complications more vulnerable. It is advised to not drink carbonated drinks as the increased carbon production in the body would require more oxygen, and ultimately increase pressure on the lungs.
Supplements for lungs
Vitamin C and Vitamin A are the trusted supplements for lung health. Vitamin C is good for the immune system and also helps in removing inflammation in the lungs and killing bacteria. Vitamin A helps in the growth of the cells and helps them to differentiate. Vitamin A is also beneficial for the immune system. It is found that people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease have low vitamin DS, thus Vitamin D can also be an important supplement for the lungs. It has also been found that people with less Vitamin E have more flare-ups for the symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, and it is advised that taking vitamin E can completely reduce the chances of falling prey to COPD.
Conclusion
The lungs are an important part and a delicate organ of the body. One must take good care of them and thus, it is advised to eat high fiber, whole grain, nutritious fruits, and vegetables to keep the body and lungs healthy and fit.
Sources:
http://www.eatingwell.com/article/7826579/healthy-lungs-food/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lung-cleansing-foods
https://lunginstitute.com/blog/7-worst-foods-for-copd-and-your-lungs/
https://www.powerbreathe.com/2017/01/16/foods-for-keeping-your-lungs-healthy/
