One thing everyone on this earth can agree on is that our lungs are definitely one of the most important organs in the body. Our lungs are responsible for filtering and distributing oxygen, which is essential for life, throughout our bodies. Lungs can be prone to a number of respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, fibrosis, and cancer.
Through exercise and not smoking, most of us may be able to avoid these problems, but why not take it a step further? Through a good diet, you can further safeguard your lung health and even those suffering from any form of lung disease will definitely benefit in some way. So without further ado, here are some foods which are great for prolonged lung health.
-
Garlic
Garlic is packed with a multitude of anti-inflammatory vitamins along with a high level of allicin, which has a wide range of health benefits ranging from boosting the immune system to cancer prevention. Garlic has been known to fight infections and reduce inflammation. Garlic has also been known to be effective in improving asthma and reducing the risk of lung cancer.
2. Ginger
Ginger is packed with anti-inflammatory nutrients, which is key to the treatment of asthma (which is essentially inflammation and swelling of the airways). There are some people who swear by the power of ginger root and would rather medicate themselves with that rather than conventional antihistamines such as Benadryl.
3. Dark Berries
Berries such as blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries are known to be rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants fight a multitude of infections and can help reduce the risk of lung cancer. Berries are probably one of the easiest foods to introduce to your diet, they can even be eaten as a snack throughout the day.
4. Grapefruit
Grapefruits contain an incredible amount of minerals and vitamins that are known to have significant cleansing effects on the lungs. The fruit is also famous for clearing carcinogens (a substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue) from a body, which means if incorporated into your diet, it would be on the front line of defence against any form of cancer.
5. Pomegranate
When it comes to combating lung cancer, this fruit packs some serious gusto. A 2007 study on pomegranate juice and lung cancer showed consuming pomegranates, particularly the juice, can help to suppress the growth and spread of lung cancer cells. Pomegranates are also extremely rich in antioxidants which are overall good for your wellbeing.
6. Seeds, Nuts, and Beans
Seeds, nuts, and beans contain a high amount of magnesium, which helps to combat asthma and its symptoms. They also have the ability to increase lung capacity, and also improve the efficiency of the respiratory process.
7. Pistachios
The key to the effectiveness of pistachios in relevance to lung health is consuming them raw. According to various studies, pistachios have been proven to be able to play a role in the prevention of lung cancer. They are also a great natural remedy to lower cholesterol.
8. Cayenne Pepper
As funny as it may sound, cayenne pepper is often used to suppress coughs as well as clear sore throats. The pepper has also been used through the ages to treat patients suffering from respiratory problems or bronchial congestion. Of course, do not chug a whole bottle of cayenne powder, but try to incorporate small amounts into your meals for a nice spicy kick.
9. Chillies and Curry
Spicy foods are great for lung detoxification since essentially, they will liquefy any mucus in your lungs, throat, and nose. But like cayenne pepper, moderation is key, especially if you know you cannot handle spicy food.
10. Onion
Onions are rich in folic acid, as well as vitamins B6 and C. They thus offer various health benefits, and are also known to help fight against lung cancer development too. However, choose to eat healthy forms of onions, like grilled or pan-seared onions to accompany your main course, rather than deep-fried onion rings.
11. Foods With Carotenoids
Carotenoids are renowned for their unique ways of fighting off the development of lung cancer. This type of antioxidant is found in many fruits and vegetables. When consumed this antioxidant is converted into Vitamin A which is also highly effective against asthma. There are various foods that contain carotenoids, including carrots, tomatoes, pumpkins and apricots.
12. Water
Water is probably the most understated treatment in almost all medical ailments. Dehydration is one of the most prevalent causes in patients who have been diagnosed with asthma. Water also accelerates the detoxification process. Although it may not be all you need, drinking plenty of clean water every day will definitely contribute to keeping your asthma symptoms at bay.
Leave a Reply