you could breathe a little easier knowing these foods are healthy and delicious!
When you think about taking care of your lungs, what comes to mind?
Not smoking is by far at the top of the list.
Photo: Getty Images / MEHAU KULYK/SPL / bergamont
Diets high in fruits and vegetables are linked tobetter lung function.
That means eating a variety of plant foods, while also limiting processed foods.
Here are the best foods to add to the menu, according to experts.
Beets are also rich in dietary nitrates, which have been shown toimprove exercise tolerance in people with COPD.
Beets have come a long way from the canned version your parents or grandparents may have served.
TryCrispy Smashed Beets with FetaorHoney-Roasted Beetsfor a delicious boost.
Blueberries
There’s a reason blueberries are often touted as a “superfood.”
They really do offer what seems like an infinite number of health benefitsincluding supporting lung health.
Check out some of ourfavorite healthy blueberry recipesfor inspiration.
(Bonus: The peel contains ursolic acid, which helps improve circulation, says Li.)
Try ourApple Cranberry Salad with Goat Cheese.
So, aim to eat a mix of fresh (when in season) and cooked tomatoes.
Mushrooms
Making sure you’re getting enough vitamin D is paramount to helping optimize your lung function.
(They also contain beta-glucans that reduce inflammation in the body, says Li.)
“Beans are a great source of dietary fiber, which impacts gut health.
Preliminary animal studies indicate that changes in gut flora are linked with pulmonary arterial hypertension,” says Andrews.
While more research is needed on the exact relationship in humans, other research suggests promising benefits as well.
Or check out some of ourfavorite healthy bean recipes.
It’s also high in fats and protein and low in carbs, Connolly adds.
This may help some people with COPD breathe better, because carbs produce the most amount of carbon dioxide.
Meanwhile, the vitamin C that oranges contain might have a protective effect againstCOPDand lung cancer.
Andrews adds that leafy greens are also a solid source of sulforaphane, a compound with antioxidant properties.
This damage could come from things like environmental pollution or smoking.
TheBottom Line
What you eat can play a role in lung health.
Work closely with your health care team to create a medical plan that is best for you.
