To feel your best, it’s crucial to maintain good lung health. Yet, typical variables like consuming inflammatory foods and being exposed to environmental contaminants like smoke and fumes can have a negative impact on these two vital organs. Studies have shown that lifestyle changes, such as following a nutrient-rich meal plan, can help preserve one’s lungs and even reduce lung damage and illness symptoms. Also, below-listed foods have been found to be particularly advantageous for lung function.

7 foods to keep the lungs healthy
Beets
The beetroot plant’s vibrantly colored greens and roots contain ingredients that improve lung function. Nitrates, abundant in beetroot and beet greens, have been demonstrated to improve lung function. Nitrates aid in blood vessel relaxation, blood pressure reduction, and improved oxygen uptake.

It has been demonstrated that beetroot supplements can help persons with lung disorders, including COPD and pulmonary hypertension, a condition that raises blood pressure in the lungs, perform better physically, and maintain healthy lungs. Beet greens are also rich in antioxidants, including carotenes, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and potassium, all crucial for healthy lungs.

Blueberries
Blueberries are certainly one of the healthiest fruits we can eat. However, did you know that eating blueberries can also benefit the lungs? Blueberries contain Vitamin C, and their high levels of antioxidants may help reduce inflammation within the body and protect the lungs from oxidative damage. Moreover, the flavonoids, the water-soluble compounds found in blueberries, may aid in keeping lung tissue strong and resistant to certain health-related issues. Thus, one needs to eat a handful or two of blueberries daily to keep the lungs healthy and to function optimally.

Turmeric
Turmeric has been long revered for its health benefits, and when it comes to lung health, it does not disappoint. This health-promoting spice offers great health benefits to the lungs. Its powerful anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce lung inflammation, helping prevent certain respiratory illnesses and chronic bronchitis flare up. 

Additionally, turmeric helps clear out mucus, making breathing easier for those with respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis. Furthermore, it has been shown to increase airway elasticity and improve overall lung health by preventing certain cell damage. Thus, if one wants an all-natural way to keep the lungs healthy and strong, adding turmeric to meals and drinking warm turmeric water may be a great option.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes have long been shown to be a healthful fruit. They’re packed with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve health. Increasingly, studies suggest that tomatoes may help reduce asthma symptoms. Lycopene, which gives tomatoes their red color, has been linked to a reduced risk of respiratory problems. Studies suggest that lycopene may help protect the lungs from damage caused by air pollution. It may also improve lung function in people with asthma.

Moreover, tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, which has been shown to protect the lungs. Vitamin C can help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections. It may also help improve lung function in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Eating tomatoes or tomato products regularly has been linked to better health outcomes for those at risk of poor air quality exposures or those with asthma seeking to manage their condition healthily. Thus, add more tomatoes to curries, make more tomato garlic soup, and add it to juices to enhance the taste and, they also help improve the lung health.

Apples
Apple’s health benefits go far beyond the many vitamins like vitamin C and K, and minerals like potassium and copper in its flesh. Eating an apple one to three times per week may reduce the onset of asthma attacks. Apples are packed with antioxidants that help protect the lungs from damage caused by smog and other pollutants and reduce inflammation that leads to asthma symptoms. Apples contain anti-inflammatory compounds like quercetin and phloretin, which may help reduce lung inflammation and improve respiratory function.

They also contain soluble fiber, which can remove toxins in the respiratory tract, making breathing easier and healthier. Slice one for snacking or blend it into a smoothie for breakfast. Adding apples to daily meals is a great way to boost one’s health, especially the lungs.

Cocoa
There are additional health benefits beyond just satisfying one’s sweet tooth. Studies have shown that cocoa is packed with health-promoting biologically active compounds which may act as anti-inflammatory agents, making it an interesting addition to a health-focused lifestyle. Additionally, cocoa contains powerful antioxidants, which may process harmful particles commonly occurring in the air and improve airway health. One of the main components of cocoa is a group of polyphenolic compounds known as flavanols. These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may benefit lung health.

It’s important to note that while cocoa flavanols show promise for supporting lung health, more research is needed to fully understand their effects and determine the optimal dosage for maximum benefit. Additionally, many cocoa products are high in sugar and calories, so choosing high-quality, minimally processed cocoa products and consuming them in moderation as part of a balanced meal plan is important.

Edamame
Isoflavones are a class of chemicals found in edamame beans. A lower risk of many diseases, including COPD, has been linked to meal plans high in isoflavones. According to a study, individuals with COPD consume much fewer isoflavones than individuals in control groups who are in good condition. Also, isoflavones help with improving lung health and reducing shortness of breath.

Eating the right foods is beneficial for maintaining healthy lungs. Taking small steps by including various vegetables and fruits in one’s meals can make a big difference. Additionally, moderation is key with food intake. Regularly engaging in light activity or exercise is important to keep the lungs strong. Keeping up with regular check-ups allows a person to visit the healthcare provider in person and ask questions that can help protect one’s pulmonary health. Lastly, ensuring an environment where one’s respiratory system isn’t at risk from pollutants such as pollen or dust particles from the outdoors is important.

In addition to eating healthy, one should keep an eye out for signs of lung issues. For instance, despite making better food choices, one might be at risk of MAC lung disease, an infection caused by a group of bacteria called Mycobacterium avium complex. Some common symptoms of this condition include fatigue, night sweats, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and chronic cough. One should consult a doctor upon noticing such signs.