Maintaining lung health is extremely important due to the role these vital organs play in providing the necessary oxygen for the body's various functions. Many factors affect lung health, such as smoking, and certain diseases like asthma can exacerbate their weakness. Adopting a specific dietary regimen can help maintain and protect lung health, according to the medical website “Healthline,” which published a list of these beneficial foods.
**Bell Pepper**
Bell peppers are among the richest sources of vitamin C and act as a strong antioxidant, making them useful in combating inflammation, especially for smokers, according to a study from the U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements. A medium-sized sweet red pepper (119 grams) provides 169% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, as per “Food Data.”
**Apples**
Research has shown that regularly consuming apples may help enhance lung function and reduce the risk of asthma and lung cancer, according to a study from California State University. Researchers attribute the benefits of apples for the lungs to the high concentration of antioxidants, including flavonoids and vitamin C.
**Pumpkin**
Pumpkin contains a variety of phytochemicals that promote lung health, such as carotenoids including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, all of which possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to a study from the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at the University of Minnesota.
**Turmeric**
Turmeric is often used to enhance overall health due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, may be particularly beneficial in supporting lung function, according to a study conducted by the University of Genoa, Italy. The study, which involved 2,478 participants, found that turmeric consumption among smokers improved their lung function compared to those who did not consume it.
**Green Tea**
According to a study issued by the Institute of Clinical Medicine in Taiwan, green tea prevents tissue fibrosis in the lungs, due to the rich antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties present in this beverage.
