The lungs need special care to function optimally. Secondhand smoke and other environmental pollutants can cause the organ to decline faster. Moreover, breathing difficulties and food are also connected; while specific options affect the lungs and make it harder to breathe, meals rich in nutrients are super beneficial. They help in breathing and reduce the risk of various respiratory disorders. This article discusses nine lung-friendly foods that one can incorporate into their nutrition regime.

1. Tomatoes
When it comes to breathing difficulties and foods that help, tomatoes are on the top of the list. They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that soothes inflammation in the airways and reduces the decline in lung function. Having tomatoes and tomato juice can also significantly improve lung health in patients with COPD.

2. Pumpkins
This is another lung-healthy veggie. Pumpkins are packed with antioxidants like beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help improve lung function. Eating pumpkins can help smokers too. One can add it to almost any dish, from stews to stir-fries and shakes.

3. Olive oil
Healthy fats like olive or canola oil are an essential addition to one’s meals. They contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and polyphenols beneficial for respiratory disorders like asthma and COPD. It is another ingredient that helps reduce lung decline in smokers.

4. Coffee
That morning cup of coffee might just be more beneficial than one thinks. Caffeine has been linked to better lung health. It is also considered a mild bronchodilator that can help individuals with breathing difficulties. If one is not fond of coffee, another beverage that has a similar effect is green tea.

5. Blueberries
Berries, especially blueberries, are beneficial for various bodily functions. They contain anthocyanins, a pigment that helps protect lung tissue from oxidative damage. A study also found that people who ate more blueberries had the least lung decline than those who did not.

6. Red cabbage
Red cabbages are another beneficial option among the foods to have with breathing difficulties. They get their vibrant color from anthocyanin, a plant pigment associated with lower lung decline. The veggie is also packed with fiber, which improves lung function. Other high-fibrous vegetables are kale, Brussel sprouts, and artichokes.

7. Lentils
Mediterranean meal plans are regarded as one of the healthiest for managing breathing difficulties with foods. They include plenty of fruits and vegetables, protein, and lentils. Lentils are rich in proteins, fibers, and essential nutrients like magnesium, iron, and potassium, which help prevent lung cancer and COPD.

8. Cocoa
Dark chocolates and cocoa contain elements like theobromine and flavonoids that help relax the lungs’ airways. They have also been known to facilitate lung function, protect against lung cancer, and lower allergic respiratory problems.

9. Beets
Rich in nitrates, beetroots help improve lung health. Additionally, beet greens are packed with magnesium, vitamin C, and zinc, vital for healthy lungs. Beets and beet greens are also excellent for people with COPD and pulmonary hypertension.