The best foods to improve your lung health

It goes without saying that our lungs are one of the most important organs in our body. Every day the average person needs... about 20,000 breaths. Each of these breaths is fueled by our lungs, which work 24 hours a day to inhale and exhale the gases necessary for survival.

Lung diseases are some of the most common medical conditions around the world. Respiratory diseases range from mild to life-threatening, and include conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, lung cancer, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis and others.
Exercising, not smoking and avoiding pollution ensure lung health. Proper nutrition can also play a significant role in taking care of your lung health.

Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are any food that is a member of the cabbage family. They are generally full of antioxidants that help your body clear toxins naturally. Some of the most popular choices for people seeking lung health are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage.

Foods with carotenoids
Carotenoid is an antioxidant orange pigment that reduces the risks of developing lung cancer. Carotenoids are found in fruits and vegetables that have an orange or red color. Carrots are a great choice because of the beta-carotene they contain. This antioxidant is converted into vitamin A, which can help reduce the incidence of asthma.

Foods with omega-3 fatty acids
This fatty acid is vital to your health. Preliminary studies show that foods rich in fatty acids have a beneficial effect on asthma. If you can't get enough of it through fish, nuts or flaxseed, try taking one of the many supplements available.

Foods with folic acid
These foods are offered to fight the process of lung carcinogens and prevent cancers. Some great choices include spinach, asparagus, beets, and lentils.

Garlic
Garlic has remained a mainstay for various natural health practices due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The high level of allicin reduces inflammation and fights infections. It destroys free radicals and can help improve asthma.

Foods with vitamin C
Foods that contain high amounts of vitamin C will help your lungs efficiently carry oxygen throughout the body. Foods that are good sources of vitamin C and popular choices for lung health are: kiwi, red and green peppers, citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit as well as vegetables, broccoli, tomato juice, strawberry, pineapple, mango and melon.

Berries
Berries are among the richest fruits with antioxidants, containing the polyphenols and anthocyanins of the flavonoid β-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants protect your lungs from cancer, disease and infection. Research suggests that fruit juice containing dark berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, may help reduce the risk of developing lung cancer.

Apples
Flavonoids have a variety of vitamins that help maintain healthy respiratory function and prevent the development of lung diseases.

Ginger
This spice is incredibly easy to include in your meal for an added flavor and health boost. Its anti-inflammatory function cleanses your lungs of lingering pollution that could lead to health problems.

Turmeric
This spice is similar to ginger in its lung health benefits. As an added bonus, high amounts of curcumin can lead to the elimination of cancer cells.

Grapefruit
This fruit will help the function of the lungs thanks to the vitamins and minerals it contains. Health experts show that the flavonoids in the fruit help clear the lungs of carcinogens.

Pomegranates
This fruit contains many antioxidants that are good to include in your diet. This delicious fruit can slow down the development of lung issues including tumor growth.

Foods with magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is commonly recommended for people suffering from asthma. It can increase lung capacity and leverage the efficiency of the breathing process. An easy way to get it is through seeds, nuts or beans.

Water
Once again, when it comes to natural health, the number one remedy is water. Although it may seem mild, our bodies need it for many different reasons. More water in your diet can get your circulatory system working while keeping your lungs hydrated and ready to clear out unwanted toxins.

The American Lung Association says most people are surprised to learn that the foods we eat can affect their breathing. And indeed, once again we see that diversity in our diet is important for our health, as no single food will provide all the nutrients we need. So, if you want to clean your lungs, don't forget to consume a variety of the above foods in your diet to keep your lungs healthy.

Another technique to clean your lungs is deep breathing. We can breathe deeply and exhale fully to maximize the cleansing effect. Deep breathing and fresh air go a long way in maintaining healthy and toxin-free lungs.