9 Foods That Help Manage Breathing Problems
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.