Our lung health is so important to us no
matter our age. We use our lungs every second of every day and the
healthier they are, the healthier we are overall. As we get older, how
we treated our lungs in our earlier years really begins to show itself
and can quickly adjust the experience we are having in our life,
especially if we didn’t take good care of them.
Our world is surrounded with toxins.
Pesticides, household chemicals, pollution, and harsh cleaning chemicals
just to name a few. As we breathe this stuff in, it slowly has effects
on the health of our lungs. This isn’t something I’m encouraging anyone
to fear, but simply to be aware of so we can make new choices. Without
awareness, we don’t know how to make changes.
We have spoken before about 15 plants and herbs that boost lung health,
now it’s time to go over the top foods that help improve lung health.
These foods can help in preventing lung cancer, help with various lung
diseases and can help keep lungs clean and healthy.
Water
Water is essential to the human body in
so many ways. When it comes to the lungs, water helps to keep our lungs
moist and free of irritation. The amount of water each person should
drink is dependent on their own body. We always hear the 6 – 8 glasses
of water rule but this really depends on what we are eating, whether we
are exercising and so forth. If you exercise a lot or eat a lot of foods
that suck water out of you, you are going to need a lot more than 6 – 8
glasses a day. Pay attention to whether you feel hydrated and try and
push your water intake up to about 2L. See how it feels for you. Adjust
according to YOUR body and lifestyle.
Apricots
Apricots are not only a great time to
eat but they contain a solid amount of antioxidants and Vitamin A.
Antioxidants are important in keeping lungs healthy and warding off the
potential for lung cancer. Along with protecting lung linings and
preventing infection, apricots have also been linked to helping to treat
asthma which is a disorder of the lungs.
Apples
Scientists who studied 2,500 Welshmen
aged 45 to 59 found those who ate five or more apples a week had the
healthiest lungs. The test was done by performing a test geared towards
determining lung capacity. Apples contain high levels of an antioxidant
called quercetin. This is good for keeping the lungs healthy and clear
of lung cancer.
Beans
Beans contain a substance called phytic
acid (IP6). IP6 has been shown to help reduce the risk and fight cancer
at various sites including the lungs. Kidney, pinto and black beans are
also great sources of antioxidants that help fight off free radicals in
the body. For the lungs, these free radicals can damage the lungs and
cause cancer.
Broccoli
Compounds called isothiocyanates from
cruciferous vegetables like broccoli may have cancer-fighting
properties. Broccoli is also high in antioxidants which we know help
reduce the risk of various lung diseases.
Berries
Berries are also rich in antioxidants,
in fact they are one of the most antioxidant rich out there, topping the
charts with the Acai berry. The blackberry is also being tested for its
use against lung cancer in women -scientists have found that the
berries could reduce the estrogen activity which feeds the tumour.
Animal studies have shown similar effects. Other berries with great lung
potential are cranberries, grapes and strawberries.
Walnuts
Walnuts contain a form of vitamin E
called gamma-tocopherol. This vitamin has been found to help fight
breast, prostate and lung cancer making walnuts another powerful food
for the lungs. Walnuts are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids
which are important for our overall health. If you can, grab a handful
of walnuts every day to help stay healthy and steer clear of lung and
respiratory illness.
Sources
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/research-into-lung–capacity-is-a-big-blow-for-apples-727445.html
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