The increasing number of lung diseases is a cause of serious concern for health experts. Be it lung infection or lung cancer, people of almost every age are being seen to be victims of such problems. Diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been seen affecting even younger people.
Experts say, apart from environmental problems, there are many conditions like disturbances in routine and diet which have been found to increase lung diseases. What kind of diet you consume also has a direct impact on health.
Doctors say, eating disorders have been considered an important factor for many types of chronic diseases including lungs. Along with following diet and exercise, avoiding pollutants is important for taking care of your lungs. Do you also eat and drink such things that are knowingly or unknowingly harming this important organ of the body?
World Lung Day is celebrated every year on 25 September to raise awareness about lung health and to prevent diseases related to it. Let us know what things should be consumed and what should be avoided to keep the lungs healthy.
What do dieticians say?
It can also have a significant impact on the quality of life of people suffering from certain conditions such as COPD or pulmonary fibrosis (a problem causing scarring in the lungs). At the same time, lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death. However, by changing lifestyle and improving diet, the entire body along with the lungs can be kept healthy.
Dietician Parul Sharma says that some foods, fruits, and vegetables containing healthy fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates make your lungs strong. While some things may increase problems for you, which need to be paid attention to.
What to eat to keep the lungs healthy?
Dietician says, to make nutrient-rich things a part of the diet.
Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids help improve lung function and reduce the risk of related diseases.
Consume eggs, yogurt, cow's milk, soy milk, and juice daily.
Protein helps keep your respiratory muscles strong and healthy. A diet rich in it improves lung function.
Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects which are considered beneficial for lung health.
Foods containing potassium have been found to have protective effects against lung cancer. Bananas, avocados, milk, and beans contain this nutrient.
These things cause harm.
Dieticians say that some things can cause problems for the lungs, which should be consumed as little as possible.
The study found that things with high sodium can cause the risk of lung diseases and even cancer.
Dairy products are an excellent source of vitamin D, however, they also contain high fat, which can hurt lung function.
Consuming too much-processed meat worsens lung function. Red meat should also be consumed in limited quantities.
Smoking and alcohol consumption are considered to be the most harmful to the lungs.
What do the experts say?
Suzanne Fisher, a dietitian at Florida International University, says, foods with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are important in reducing oxidative stress, which is a factor for lung diseases. By consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats that contain essential vitamins, zinc, iron, and magnesium, you can reduce lung problems. Maintaining a proper diet is very important for good lung health.
(PC: ISTOCK)
