10 Foods for Healthy Lungs

10 Foods for Healthy Lungs
Photo Credit thorax x-ray of the lungs image by JoLin from Fotolia.com

Lung health is a critical linchpin of overall well-being. Oxygen deprivation from poor respiration is especially serious for seniors, and many predatory illnesses, such as pneumonia, begin by attacking the lungs. Keeping your lungs healthy through smart dietary choices is therefore a long-term investment in your personal well-being.

Water

Water is essential for healthy lungs, as dry lungs are more susceptible to irritation. According to EduBook, you should drink six to eight glasses of water each day.

Fatty Fish

According to the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition," fatty fish are an excellent food for healthy lungs. This is due to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish which are linked with lung health.

Apple Juice

EduBook notes that children who drank apple juice experienced less wheezing than children who did not. To get the benefit, eating apples is not an equivalent in children, who need daily juice.

Apples

Apples are the food for adults who want healthy lungs. Apples are effective for adult who want to focus on lung health, and juice does not offer adults the same benefit as children.

Apricots

Apricots are associated with healthy lungs due to their vitamin A content. The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that vitamin A supports respiratory tract linings, and may lower the risk of lung infections.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a highly antioxidant green vegetable with NRF2-dependent characteristics. As a result, EduBook notes that it is one of the best greens for lung health, especially in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.

Poultry

Chicken, turkey, and other small poultry birds can benefit your lungs. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, these foods are high in lung health boosting vitamin A, and your body may absorb animal-based versions of vitamin A better than plant-based versions.

Walnuts

Walnuts are a vegetarian source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eat regular servings of walnuts -- about one handful daily -- may help fight asthma and other respiratory ailments according to the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition."

Beans

According to the American Cancer Society, beans can support lung health. Kidney, pinto, black and other beans are good sources of antioxidants, which fight off free radicals that may damage lungs.

Berries

Berries are rich in antioxidants, which the American Cancer Society notes protects lungs. Acai and blueberry are two of the top sources, but cranberries, grapes, and strawberries are also good for the lungs.

References

Article reviewed by JPC Last updated on: Dec 23, 2010

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