Lungs for life

Imagine plump, pink sponges. This is what healthy lungs look like. They're elastic and can expand and contract easily when you breathe. 

Your lungs are among the hardest-working organs in your body. For your lungs to work at the top of their range, your airways need to be open and free of inflammation and abnormal amounts of mucus.

Keep your lungs in tip-top shape with these tips. 

Eat lung-cleansing foods
Boost your intake of antioxidant-rich foods like garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, ginger, and apples to cleanse your lungs of toxins, and boost lung function. Broccoli, cabbage and kale are also high in antioxidants and have been shown to reduce the risk for lung cancer. Protein can help maintain strong respiratory muscles. Include good sources of protein like milk, cheese, and chicken in your diet.

Avoid pollution
There are many pollutants in the air that are harmful to your lungs. Common air pollutants are carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, and lead. Avoid highly polluted and industrialised areas. Minimise outdoor pollution and help create a cleaner environment, e.g. walk or ride your bicycle to work instead of driving.

Don't smoke
Cigarette smoke contains  toxic chemicals that can cause havoc to your lungs and overall health. These chemicals affect the way your lungs function, and cause serious lung diseases like COPD and lung cancer. The more you smoke, the greater your risk. Save your lungs and your life by quitting. It's never too late to reap the benefits of stubbing out that cigarette for good.

Improve indoor air
Air pollution isn’t just an outdoor problem. Pollutants like fireplaces, mould, pet dander, candles and air fresheners can contaminate indoor environments, and cause lung infection. Get rid of these sources of pollution and improve ventilation by opening up a window or two. It may also help to get a houseplant. Indoor plants like ferns and Aloe Vera act as natural air purifiers.

Exercise more
Regular exercise can improve lung performance and function, and lower your risk for lung disease. Do aerobic exercises like walking or cycling to increase lung capacity. Strengthen the muscles that surround your lungs with cardiovascular and breathing exercises. These exercises can also help clear out toxins in the lungs and clear the airways.