Foods that help your breathing and respiratory system

There are various foods that can help your respiratory system breathe and function better. While the primary function for the respiratory system is to release old air and inhale fresh oxygen, sometimes things can get in the way of that process. Things that can affect the process of normal breathing are anthing that obstructs the airway. This can be an anatomical obstruction like a deviated septum, or a physiogical obstruction like inflamed and swollen tissue like in a sinus infection or allergic rhinitis. can include a cold, sinus infections, the flu, pollutants, smoking and allergies.

Respiratory System

Allergies, pollutants, sinus infections, the flu and colds cause inflammation to your sinuses and lungs making it more difficult to breathe. These disorders can cause blockages in the nasal passageways due to inflammation and the build up of excess mucus. A broken nose or deviated septum can be both an anatomic and physiolgical obstruction at the same time with the swelling that accompanies the nasal trauma.  In this article you will learn about changes your your daily eating habits and the potential effects on your sinuses. Read this article to learn about other ways to reduce sinus inflammation. Let us begin with the discussionf of various foods that improve breathing and can help reduce the inflammation that some of the above disorders can cause to your respiratory system.

Foods that help breathing

This guide will show some foods that may improve your breathing by helping your respiratory system. The following foods can be bought at your local supermarket and can be taken on a regular basis.

Green Tea – This contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and help promote better healing. Hot water also helps to soothe the throat and lungs if they have become irritated. It is also great to help clear out the sinuses because it will help loosen mucus.

Carrots – They contain an essential nutrient called beta-carotene. Your body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A, which is the nutrient the body needs to defend itself from infections such as bacteria and toxins.

Nuts – These also contain an essential nutrient, Vitamin E. Vitamin E is intended to reduce inflammation and help open up your airways. It is an essential nutrient to the immune system and help in the formation of red blood cells, which promotes oxygen to the body.

Onions, Blueberries and Pears – These are put into the healthy breathing category because they all contain high amounts of flavonoids. Flavonoids are antioxidants that help reinforce the capillary walls. Asthma causes inflammation in the capillary walls. Also flavonoids help the lining of the lungs from damage caused by pollutants.

Apples – These also contain high amounts of flavonoids as well as quercetin that may help relieve symptoms of sinusitis. Apples are loaded with vitamins that help the capacity of the lungs and reduce inflammation.

Leafy Greens – Such as spinach, contain a great source of magnesium and folate that help with allergies and asthma. Magnesium helps the muscles relax which promote more airflow. They are also rich in iron that helps th lungs transport oxygen.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Foods that contain this include salmon, tuna, almonds, and peanuts. They help reduce the inflammation of the lungs and the effects of asthma.

Vitamin C – Foods that contain vitamin C are a great way to increase lung functionality. These are especially abundant in citrus foods like oranges and grapefruits.

Conclusion

All of these foods may help promote the body to fight off infections and reduce inflammation in the sinuses and lungs. Taking these foods on a regular can assist your body’s immune system to better perform its function and help you breathe easier. It is important to understand that if you have any type of chronic nasal obstruction or sinusitis issues to consider a consult with a sinus and nasal specialist. Dr. Bennett is a double board certified ENT that specializes in the functional improvement of the nose. You may have solutions available to you that will provide a more permanent improvement of your breathing health.