Top foods that boost lung health

Respiration is one of the most crucial functions that is enabled by the lungs in the human body. The lungs are made up of millions of spongy air sacs that absorb and store oxygen. But this function can suffer due to lung disease, disorders, or even chronic ailments. Some can be cured, while others can only be managed with treatments, prescriptions, and healthy changes in lifestyle. Including these foods can also promote overall lung health.

Bananas
Studies reveal that supplementing the body with potassium naturally helps improve lung function and increases its respiratory capacity. It also helps regulate blood pressure and reduces the risk of water retention to improve overall lung function. Bananas are the richest source of potassium, easy to include in daily foods, and inexpensive to consume daily.

Apples
An apple a day will keep respiratory problems at bay. Quercetin is one of the key antioxidants found in apples that help reduce cell damage and prevents healthy lung tissue from deteriorating. Studies reveal that eating four to five apples during the week even helps repair the damaged tissues resulting from smoking or exposure to pollutants in the air.

Beetroot
The green elements and roots of beetroot vastly improve the functioning of one’s lungs. Additionally, beetroot contains massive reserves of nitrates that optimize lung performance and overall respiratory health. The nitrates in beetroot reduce its consumer’s blood pressure, boost oxygen uptake, and relax their blood vessels.

Garlic
Garlic is a potent spice and comes loaded with anti-inflammatory compounds that helps reduce the risk of free radical damage. Inflammation is one of the leading symptoms linked to respiratory disorders. Studies reveal that consuming raw garlic even helps lower the risk of developing lung cancer.

Ginger
Ginger root has a specific relaxing and soothing effect on inflamed lung muscles. It helps open the airways and promotes better respiration. The anti-inflammatory compounds also lower the risk of lung tissue damage and boost lung function.

Foods rich in vitamin D
A vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of asthma and other respiratory disorders. Include foods like eggs, fortified milk, orange juice, fortified dairy products to help supplement the requirements.

IPF treatment – Esbriet
Esbriet is a prescription medication suggested to treat Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). Studies show the oral tablet is effective in reducing the progression of the disease and help improve quality of life in the long run. While it cannot reverse lung damage already done, Esbriet effectively preserves remaining lung function. Esbriet is available in two doses and must be taken as per the dosage instructions recommended by a doctor only.

Treatment options like DUPIXENT (Dupilumab) and FASENRA can be used to treat lung conditions. While DUPIXENT blocks two key sources of inflammation in the lungs, FASENRA activates the immune system to destroy eosinophils in the blood that harm the lungs. Air purifiers like Coway AP1512HH, Honeywell HPA300, and Blueair Blue Pure 211 Plus, containing heap filters, can also be used to prevent polluted air from triggering lung diseases.