12 Super Foods for Lungs

Lungs are the most essential and chief breathing organs in the human body. The two lungs are located on either side of the heart, near the backbone. They have the key role of transporting oxygen from the surrounding environment into the bloodstream. Similarly, they release carbon-di-oxide from the bloodstream back into the atmosphere. For this process to take place, large surface area is needed, and it is accomplished by the cluster of specific cells, which are very tiny and have a very thin wall, and are called alveoli.

It is very essential to keep the lungs functioning efficiently as improper functioning can lead to a number of dangerous lung diseases, including asthma, bronchiolitis, asbestosis, etc. Below are some superfoods that are highly nourishing and are loaded with essential vitamins and nutrients that ensure the proper functioning of lungs.

1. Water

Dry lungs are more likely to get irritated as the alveoli get constricted due to the lack of adequate water. Water is the quintessential drink to keep the lungs well hydrated. Drinking plenty of water in a day is good not just for your kidneys, but also for lungs and the whole body. It is advisable that one should drink at least 10-12 glasses of water in a day for the proper functioning of lungs and other body parts.

2. Garlic

Garlic is not just used to make a dish piquant, but also for various therapeutic benefits. It has been used for more than 100 years as a superfood to treat various ailments and disorders. Garlic is an anti-bacterial and helps to clear pathways of bronchioles. Besides, it also helps to flush out mucus and cough; thus, making the nasal air passage thoroughly clear and making the process of respiration easy.

3. Apple Juice

Studies have revealed that drinking apple juice daily can keep children away from wheezing. Hence, apple juice should be introduced in your daily diet to keep lung disorders at bay.

4. Apricots

Apricots are rich in vitamin A and hence, associated with the healthy functioning of lungs. Vitamin A is responsible for linings of the respiratory tract and thus, keeps lung disorders at bay.

5. Ginger

Ginger is another blissful food that when added to your diet can help you detoxify your lungs. Ginger also helps in improving the circulation of blood and thus, keeps the body healthy and fit. Ginger has also been proven to aid in digestion along with curing bronchitis and making your immune system much stronger than before.

6. Chilli

For some people, hot and spicy chilies are a great addiction during a meal, but very few know that it is equally beneficial when it comes to keeping the lungs healthy and disease-free. Chilies also help to remove tars and chemicals that get trapped in the mucus, thereby, help in lung detoxification process.

7. Fresh Foods

Processed and preserved foods might be cheap and quite convenient to buy, but they certainly do not add to the health benefits of your body. In fact, they play a dominant role in destroying and weakening your body from the core. They contain harmful chemicals that interfere with the various metabolic functions of the body and blood sugar levels, thus, harming the body in many ways. So, it is highly advisable to consume fresh fruits and vegetables to keep the inner body clean and clear. At the same time, you will notice a drastic difference in the health of your lungs, as well.

8. Broccoli

Broccoli has high levels of antioxidants and thus, it is highly beneficial and one of the best veggies for keeping up the lungs’ health. Studies have also proven that broccoli is an effective remedy for patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.

9. Poultry

Poultry birds, like chicken and turkey, are small, but can benefit your lungs greatly. According to the Office of the Dietary Supplement, these small yet efficacious birds have high levels of vitamin A and are essential for lungs’ health. So, you should try on these poultry birds and see what health benefits they can bestow apart from delectable taste.

10. Walnuts

As a known fact, walnuts contain a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids and are quintessential in treating various respiratory disorders, such as asthma. Have a handful of walnuts every day in your breakfast to keep away such disorders.

11. Berries

Berries, be it blueberries, raspberries or strawberries, are superb source of antioxidants. Amongst all the berries, blueberries are the ones that contain the maximum amount of antioxidants. Besides, cranberries, strawberries and grapes are equally good for the health of your lungs.

12. Beans

Like berries, beans also contain high levels of antioxidants. Red beans, black beans, all are good for lungs’ health and fight off free radicals efficaciously, which could otherwise damage lungs.