10 Superfoods to Help Improve the Respiratory System

 

The pandemic that the world is currently experiencing calls for more emphasis on how we should take care of our overall health. We have long been made aware that we should eat healthy foods, improve our hygiene, boost our immune system, and follow health protocols.

Research has suggested that COVID-19 may have certain effects on the body, some of which may  include the primary target of the virus, which is our respiratory system.

So we decided to research many foods that may be helpful for supporting lung health. Here are ten (10) recommended healthy superfoods that you may want to consider including in your diet:

 

Apples

 

 Daily intake of apples has also been linked to a healthy immune system as they contain Vitamin C, E, and a high concentration of antioxidants which may be beneficial to the respiratory system. They are rich in a phytonutrient called quercetin, which has been researched  to  help support the lungs. Furthermore, apple peels contain ursolic acid, a natural chemical compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. And as we’ve all heard the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, it seems that this food is one to look out for.

 

 

Beans, Seed, and Nuts

 

 

Beans, seed, and nuts are good magnesium sources, an important electrolyte that may help support your lungs. They also provide essential fatty acids which some have reported, act as an anti-inflammatory, supporting the reduction of lung inflammation. Adding a handful of nuts to your daily on-the-go snacking might be something new to add to your daily routine.

Flax seeds are also a great choice as they contain a healthy dose of vitamin E, which aids in boosting the immune system and supplying the body with red blood cells.

 

Cruciferous Vegetables

 Leafy greens, like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, and kale, are packed with antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E) and phytochemicals (carotenoids). Carotenoids are thought to protect cells and play a role in blocking harmful cells in the body. They are rich in chlorophyll which aids in helping to manage blood circulation. Moreover, they contain high levels of naturally occurring nitrates from the soil that your body converts into nitric oxide. This potent blood vessel dilator could be beneficial for circulation and oxygen delivery.

 

Garlic 

 Some people may not like the taste or smell of raw garlic, but it has been said to be great for your health. Cloves of garlic are composed of flavonoids, a chemical that stimulates glutathione production and enhances the elimination of toxins and carcinogens in the body, which could possibly allow the lungs to function better. They also contain a compound called allicin, which helps discard bacteria. 

 

Ginger

 Ginger has been recognized and used for a long time as an aid to digestion and reducing nausea.Ginger has also been suggested to help the lungs with breaking down mucus. They are full of anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and therefore help the lungs. One way to ingest ginger is to boil chopped ginger in water, strain the ginger out, then add honey and drink it as a tea.

 

Green Tea

 

 Many people use different herbs and natural substances turning them into healthy drinks. One of the well known   is green tea. Green tea has been used for centuries. It contains polyphenol, a micronutrient that we get through certain plant-based foods. Many nutritionists believe that polyphenols can help improve digestion, support weight loss, and may support respiratory functions however more research is needed. This specific kind of tea is also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that may support the reduction of inflammation. Nutritionists normally suggest drinking at least two cups of green tea every day.

 

 

Oregano

 

 Oregano contains carvacrol and rosmarinic acid, both of which are natural decongestants and antihistamines. Therefore, consuming oregano may be supportive for lung functions. This herb is typically added to food. Some people choose to boil its leaves and turn them into a drink. Oregano has also been linked to immunity support, promoting healthy digestion, and weight loss.

 

 

Salmon 

Salmon is full of amino acids that the body uses to help improve the absorption of nutrients and repair body tissues. As our body can't make essential amino acids, we need to eat foods that contain this. Moreover, salmon contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which may help with inflammation in the body. Salmon also has vitamin D, which may support the respiratory muscle system. 

 

Turmeric 

Turmeric is a spice that is a potent antioxidant and well known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Daily consumption of turmeric may help  with inflammation throughout the body. Moreover, a compound called curcumin in turmeric has been suggested to help  support the lungs and the body’s immunity. You can eat raw turmeric, use the powdered form with milk, or add a pinch to your herbal concoctions for better health.

 

Water

 

 

Water plays a massive role in health and is the base of any cleansing action. As our body mostly consists of water, it is vital to keep our body hydrated to keep the blood flowing to and from the lungs. 

Our lungs have a thin lining of mucus inside. When you get enough water over the day, this lining stays thin, helping your lungs do their job better. Proper hydration is essential for more than just lung health, and health professionals suggest that an individual should consume 90-125 ounces of fluid every day. 

Some of these foods and liquids may be a bit challenging to prepare which is why many people opt for a supplement containing the nutrients and vitamins. 

Nature's Branch Turmeric and Ginger with BioPerine supplement includes a powerful combination of 1950mg premium quality turmeric curcumin and organic ginger extract to help support respiratory health, cardiovascular health, and bone health. Each of our Turmeric and Ginger capsules also contains black pepper extract in order to boost the absorption. They are manufactured in an FDA-certified manufacturing facility to ensure potency, safety, and quality. Get your bottle today!