There are many natural foods that can improve pulmonary function and lung health. These include vegetables, fruits and other wholesome foods. In this article, we look at useful foods for lungs that can protect these vital organs from disease and even repair damaged tissue.
Healthy Foods for Lungs
Carrots
Research reveals that foods containing beta-carotene reduce the risk of lung cancer. Foods rich in beta-carotene include sweet potatoes and carrots. These vegetables can also treat shortness of breath and bronchial inflammation. But, beware of beta-carotene supplements as they increase the risk of lung cancer.
Corn
Corn is rich in beta-cryptoxanthin, which reduces lung cancer risk. Papaya, pumpkin and winter squash are also rich in beta-cryptoxanthin. Chinese researchers have found that beta-cryptoxanthin in fruits and vegetables protects the lungs and inhibits lung cancer development.
Brazil Nuts
Do not be disheartened because Brazil nuts have thick shells that are tough to crack. It is worth the effort to prise them open as they are rich in nutritional contents like selenium which can protect the lungs from free radicals. This nutrient also boosts immunity and slows down the growth of lung tumor.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is rich in vitamin E and selenium, both of which combine to boost lung health. Patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often lack both vitamin E and selenium. Mayo Clinic reveals that vitamin E improves asthma symptoms in sufferers.
Oranges
Oranges contain plenty of potassium and vitamin C, which are usually lacking in COPD and asthma sufferers. Vitamin C prevents bronchial inflammation and secondary respiratory infections. Citrus fruits such as grapefruits and oranges contain nutrients that boost lung health.
Broccoli
Vegetables like broccoli, watercress and cauliflower prevent lung cancer and improve symptoms of asthma and COPD. Broccoli is rich in magnesium, potassium and vitamin C. It also contains plenty of flavonoids and carotenids which prevent lung disease.
Eggs
Many people balk at eating eggs as the yolks are rich in cholesterol. But, eggs are also a great source of protein, fat and selenium. Protein is used by the body to treat lung damage due to disease or smoking. The healing nutrients in eggs provide caloric energy that fight fatigue and weakness due to lung disease.
Tips for Healthy Foods for Lungs
- Ensure your diet consists of a variety of healthy foods that provide adequate nourishment.
- As vegetables and fruits are rich in nutrients, you should include plenty of these foods in your daily diet.
- Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods breads, cereals and other grain products.
- Low-fat dairy products, and greasy and oily foods should be avoided as they are rich in harmful calories which affects the lungs.
- Your diet should contain foods with lean proteins like turkey, chicken, fish and eggs.
- Limit the consumption of salt as it affects the lungs and overall health.
- Consume alcohol and caffeine in moderation as they are addictive and impact lung health.
- Drink plenty of water every day to flush out toxins and keep the lungs healthy.
- Avoid drinking sugary and carbonated beverages. You should also limit the intake of candies and cakes as they are rich in harmful refined starches and sugar.
- Do not drink water or any other beverage along with your meal because this puts pressure on the diaphragm.
- To stay fit and healthy, it is necessary to exercise regularly and maintain the ideal weight for your age and height.
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