A healthy lifestyle begins with eating foods that nourish your body and not toxify it. Fruits and vegetables are packed with nutrients that are optimal in achieving overall wellness. Several illnesses can be avoided by having a clean and healthy diet. Our respiratory health can greatly benefit from different foods and vitamins in order to keep them functioning properly and be protected from illnesses.
Here are some fruits, vegetables, and vitamins that you can include in your diet to help keep your lungs strong and robust:
Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, both essential for lung health. It also contains carotenoids, folate, and phytochemicals that help keep the lungs healthy by fighting off damaging chemicals. Broccoli is good for people who are suffering from chronic pulmonary diseases, as it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the lungs caused by COPD illnesses.
Apricots
Apricots are not only delicious, but they also help protect your lungs and help keep them strong. The sweet fruit is filled with vitamins and minerals such as beta-carotene and lycopene, as well as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial properties that can lower the risks of infections and chronic lung diseases.
Berries
Berries, especially acai and blueberries, are great for keeping the lungs healthy and free from diseases. Berries are rich in antioxidants that can help fight damaging free radicals that affect the lungs. These fruits can also help boost the immune system to help prevent infections.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains high levels of capsaicin which regulate lung secretions. Capsaicin can also protect the mucus membranes in the upper and lower respiratory tract from infection. Cayenne pepper contains beta-carotene that can aid in reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties found in its curcumin component. Drinking turmeric tea can reduce inflammation in the airways, thus can be beneficial for relieving symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.
Walnuts
Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids that can fight symptoms of the different respiratory illnesses caused by inflammation in the lungs. Eating a handful of walnuts daily can help keep the lungs strong and protected from inflammatory ailments.
Ginger
Ginger is another food that is rich in anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger can help detoxify the lungs by eliminating harmful pollutants present in the respiratory system. It can also improve air circulation in the respiratory system and unclog air passages to relieve congestion.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for making sure our bodies are strong and healthy. It supports cell growth, not only of the lungs but also of the heart and kidneys. Vitamin A has been used to help repair lung tissues damaged by toxins.
Having enough vitamin A in the body helps provide the lungs the capacity to repair on their own. An increase in vitamin A intake can help patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is well-known for its immune-boosting capabilities, which can protect your lungs from infections. Because vitamin C is an antioxidant, it helps in eliminating free radicals and toxins in the body, particularly in the lungs. The majority of diseases related to the lungs are caused by harmful chemicals. Taking vitamin C supplements and eating foods that are rich in vitamin C can be a great way to maintain lung health.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, which is commonly derived from vegetable oil, is believed to be effective in lowering the risk of contracting chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. Studies have shown that long-term intake of vitamin E supplements can help reduce the chances of getting COPD as a person ages, and COPD is more common among older patients. Vitamin E can also help neutralize toxins in the lungs and other organs in the body.
A healthy diet is essential in keeping our bodies strong and healthy. Making sure that we eat foods that are full of nutrients can help us in maintaining the proper function of all the body’s systems. Foods that contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties help ensure that our lungs and other organs in the body are working well. Combined with regular exercise and healthy habits, we can ensure that our lungs and our entire bodies are in their best possible shape.
