Take Care Of Your Lungs With These 6 Foods

The lungs have been getting a lot of attention lately as coronavirus continues to make headlines. They work non-stop in the process of breathing in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide, and this may be compromised when coronavirus infects the body. But one thing for certain, virus or no, are essential for human life as the core of our respiratory system.

For this reason, it pays to take good care of your lungs. Check out these 6 foods to consume to keep your lungs healthy.

1. Garlic

Garlic as corona cure, myth or fact? Well, there is a reason why everyone prizes garlic as a potent respiratory cure. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce free radical damage to the lungs. Studies suggest that raw garlic consumption may also play a role in reducing the risk of developing lung cancer. Last but not least, researchers found that ‘allicin’, a compound found in garlic can kill bacteria that trigger life threatening lung infections

2. Complex Carbs

According to the American Lung Association, people who suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) may benefit from healthy carbs that are loaded with fiber and more anti-inflammatory. Complex carbohydrates are found in foods such as peas, beans, whole grains, and vegetables. At the same time, cut down on simple carbs in all processed foods or pastries, white bread, and those in sugary beverages.

3. Healthy Fats

Fats have the lowest carbon dioxide load during metabolism. Combined with complex carbohydrates, patients with breathing difficulty may notice better breathing. To get more healthy fats, include one serving of nuts daily. Try walnuts, which are the richest plant source of omega-3 fats, eat fatty fish—salmon, sardines, anchovies—at least two to three times per week, and sprinkle flax seeds on cereals and salads.

4. Apples and Tomatoes.

Eating fruits is beneficial to the lungs, especially true for apples and tomatoes. These two delicious and juicy foods have the ability to help slow the natural decline in the lung functions. And studies suggest that these two foods may play a role in helping to repair the lungs of ex-smokers. With high levels of antioxidants, apples and tomatoes can contribute in protecting the lungs from the harmful effects of atmospheric pollutants and cigarette smoke.

5. Vitamins Rich Foods

Research suggests that dietary vitamin C can provide protection against COPD, independent of smoking history. And other studies have suggested that vitamin C might have a protective effect against lung cancer. So make sure you grab your daily dose of vitamin C from orange-colored produce like oranges, papayas, pumpkins, carrot, apples and red bell peppers.

As for vitamin D, it can boost the immune system and reduce airway inflammation. In fact, low levels of vitamin D are associated with increased childhood asthma and vitamin D supplements have been shown to help reduce asthma attacks. Other studies suggest a possible correlation between reduced vitamin D levels and lung disease. Dietary sources of vitamin D include fortified milk, eggs, yogurt and salmon.

6. Water

Lungs are 80% water, and even mild dehydration can impact lung function significantly. For optimal lung health make sure to drink plenty of water, as your lungs utilize water to keep your airways clean and clear of mucus and inflammatory build up. Another drink to boost your lungs is green tea. Due to its high levels of antioxidants, green tea reduces inflammation and protects the lungs from irritation.