Healthy Lungs

FOR THE SAKE OF EVERYBODY'S LUNGS DO NOT BURN PLASTIC

The windpipe called the trachea conducts inhaled air into the lungs through its tubular branches, called bronchi. The bronchi then divide into smaller and smaller branches called bronchioles, becoming microscopic.

FOR THE SAKE OF EVERYBODY'S LUNGS DO NOT BURN PLASTIC

Peas, lentils, whole-wheat products, baked beans, and broccoli are all high in fiber, which is great for your lungs. People who eat more fiber have lungs that work better than those who don’t eat much fiber. Leafy greens and Chinese greens are good. Tomatoes are the richest source of lycopene, which is linked to lung health. Processed, or cured, meats are bad for lung function. Research points to a connection between regular coffee and healthier lungs. This could be due to the caffeine, which is anti-inflammatory, and polyphenols, which are antioxidants and also anti-inflammatory.

Nitrates and nitrites used in the processing and preservation of cured meats may cause inflammation and stress to the lungs. In addition to processed meats such as bacon, sausage, and deli-meats, nitrates and nitrites are found in the soil. Therefore, fruits, vegetables, and grains naturally contain nitrates. Vegetables actually contribute to the largest amount of nitrates to our diet. Nitrates may enter drinking water through contamination. If you have asthma or other lung problem, going dairy-free may help cut down on your mucus production.

Heavy drinking is bad for your liver and for your lungs. Sulfites in alcohol can worsen asthma symptoms, and ethanol affects your lung cells. If you drink too much, you’re more likely to get pneumonia and other lung problems. But a little bit is OK. Two drinks or less per day, especially if it’s wine, maybe good for your lung health.

FOR THE SAKE OF EVERYBODY'S LUNGS DO NOT BURN PLASTIC