Q. I have a few problems with my lungs and lung health, and I’m wondering if there are foods that are helpful for lung health?
A. Eating antioxidant-rich foods is one of the easiest ways to support lung health.
Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E help fight the damage caused by molecules called free radicals. Too many free radicals can lead to inflammation, increasing the risk of chronic illnesses.
Stress, smoking, and pollution all can accelerate the production of free radicals, damaging lung cells and causing difficulty breathing. However, some of these foods may also help reduce the effects of lung diseases like chronic bronchitis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The nutrients in many foods can help improve respiratory and lung function, allowing you to breathe easier.
Your lungs, blood vessels and airways make up the respiratory system. This system supplies the entire body with oxygen, removes carbon dioxide, and allows you to talk and smell.
The respiratory system and food constantly work together to fuel the body through a process called metabolism. This process of converting food to energy is kick-started with oxygen. The energy from metabolism then fuels all of the body’s functions.
Beets: A source of the plant pigment betalains and antioxidants, beets can help reduce inflammation and lower the body’s sensitivity to asthma attack triggers.
Avocados: The fiber in avocados, plus vitamins E and C, all contribute to healthier lungs by fighting free radicals and reducing symptoms of respiratory diseases.
Quinoa: Whole grains such as quinoa release energy slowly and produce less carbon dioxide during metabolism than simple carbs, which can make breathing easier.
Mangoes: A source of the antioxidant vitamin A, mangoes can help prevent inflammation in the body and lead to improvements in overall lung function and health.
Beans: Legumes such as beans, peas and lentils are a source of dietary fiber, which is associated with better lung function and may reduce respiratory symptoms.
Kale: Containing antioxidants such as vitamins A and C, kale can help fight and reduce damage from free radicals, and helps support lung health and breathing.
Salmon: Foods with omega-3 fatty acids, including salmon, may help improve lung function and minimize flare-ups of respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma.
Peaches: One raw peach has about 6% of the average person’s daily vitamin A needs, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of lung and oral cancers.