Positive health and wellness reduce the risk of becoming ill and the negative effects that illnesses can have on our work, social and family relationships, as well as our lives. We are also less likely to get sick and enjoy a higher quality of life when we feel better mentally, physically, and emotionally. Although the lungs are not something that comes to mind when thinking of health, they age and become less effective over time.
Smoking, illness, exposure to chemicals or pollutants, and poor eating habits can all affect lung health. The lung function of those who consume less fruits, vegetables, and nuts is rapidly reduced. These foods contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well as phytochemicals from plants. This reduces inflammation and improves lung function.
According to studies, lifestyle changes with a nutrient-rich intake diet can help protect the lungs against chronic inflammation and reduce symptoms.
The best foods to improve lung health
To improve your overall health, it is important to eat a diet rich in nutrients. Certain foods can protect your lungs from lung disease progression.
- Turmeric
Turmeric’s bioactive component, curcumin, is an antioxidant with antibacterial, viral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. It protects us against various diseases, including eye, brain, heart, and skin conditions. Curcumin helps to improve respiratory health and repair lung damage.
- Tomatoes
Lycopene, an antioxidant carotenoid found in tomatoes and tomato products, reduces inflammation of the airways for people with asthma or who smoke. Vitamin C is also found in tomatoes, which helps to reduce inflammation and fights free radicals. Various studies have shown that our bodies absorb lycopene more readily when we eat cooked tomatoes.
- Beetroot
Beetroot and greens contain nitrates that relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure and improve lung function in those with COPD and pulmonary hypertension. Beetroots and greens also contain vitamin C and magnesium, potassium, and antioxidant carotenoid, which are all beneficial to lung health and immunity.
- Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and beet greens carry antioxidants and phytochemicals from plants that can lessen inflammation and bottom the chance of lung tumors.
- Apple
A famous quote, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is very well-liked. Well, it’s true. Apples contain quercetin, a phytonutrient that helps to reduce asthma and COPD complications. Apples have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce airway inflammation and oxidative stress. The apple peel contains ursolic acids, which improve blood circulation.
- Oranges
Oranges contain calcium and vitamin C. These foods replenish nutrients lost during steroid treatment, protect the lungs against cancers and COPD, and improve lung function.
- Pepper
Red peppers are particularly rich in vitamin C and can protect the lungs from diseases such as COPD and asthma. This powerful food rich in antioxidants protects the lungs and improves lung function.
- Blueberries
Anthocyanins and nutrients in blueberries protect lung tissue against oxidative damage and improve lung function.
- Pumpkin
Pumpkins are rich in carotenoids such as zeaxanthin and lutein. These carotenoids have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant properties, improving lung function.
- Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in sulforaphane, a compound that protects the lungs from damage caused by environmental pollutants or toxins. Broccoli contains vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and helps to improve immunity and prevent cancer.
- Mushrooms
Mushrooms contain beta-glucans and vitamin D, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve lung health.
- Edamame
Edamame beans are rich in isoflavones which can reduce symptoms of breathlessness and improve lung function.
- Yogurt
Yogurt is rich in minerals and antioxidants such as selenium. It also contains calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and phosphorus. These nutrients improve lung function and reduce the risk of COPD.
- Salmon & oysters
Sea foods like salmon and oysters contain zinc, copper, and selenium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help smokers avoid COPD by improving lung function and respiratory muscle strength.
- Walnut
Walnuts contain magnesium, which is good for strengthening lung muscles. Walnuts also contain omega-3 fats, which help reduce inflammation in the lungs, fight infection, and ease breathing.
- Brazil nuts
Brazil nuts contain the highest amount of selenium. Selenium helps to protect against lung cancer, inflammation, and lung cancer. It also improves respiratory function and immunity.
- Barley
This whole grain product is rich in vitamin E and flavonoids, which help protect against oxidative stress and improve lung health.
- Lentils
All beans and lentils, including white, black, and red, contain high levels of fiber and nutrients that help protect the lungs and COPD.
- Eggs
The eggs are high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and protein. These nutrients help to strengthen respiratory muscles, repair damaged lung cells and grow normal cells.
- Cocoas and cocoa products
Dark chocolate and cocoa are rich in theobromine and flavonoid compounds that reduce respiratory allergies and inflammation. They also relax the airway and protect it from cancers and chronic lung disease.
By eating more plant-based foods and less red meat, you can improve lung health. With dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and regular exercise, you can improve your lung health.
