How to Improve Your Lung Function Naturally According To A Doctor
Your lung capacity represents the maximum volume of air your lungs can contain. As the years go by, our lung capacity and function typically experience a gradual decline, starting around our mid-20s. [1]
However, certain conditions, such as asthma, can accelerate lung capacity and function decline. [2]
This can result in breathing challenges and episodes of breathlessness. Thankfully, numerous natural methods can improve your lung function and bolster the well-being of these essential organs.
This article will explore the benefits of lung health supplements, nourishing foods that support lung health, and herbal remedies that contribute to lung healing.
What is lung function?
Lung function is a term that refers to how well the lungs can perform their main functions of breathing and exchanging gases.
The lungs are responsible for the exchange of two primary gases: oxygen and carbon dioxide.
When you inhale, you bring in oxygen from the environment into your lungs. This oxygen is then transported by the blood to the rest of your body where it is used for various cellular processes.
During these processes, carbon dioxide is produced as a waste product. The blood carries this carbon dioxide back to the lungs where it is expelled from the body when you exhale.
This cycle of gas exchange is crucial for maintaining the body’s pH balance and delivering oxygen to tissues and organs.
Lung function can be measured by various tests that assess the volume, capacity, flow and diffusion of air in and out of the lungs.
For example:
- Forced Vital Capacity (FVC): This is the total amount of air you can forcefully exhale after taking the deepest breath possible. Normal values are calculated based on age, height, and gender. Forced vital capacity can decrease by about 0.2 liters per decade, even for healthy people who have never smoked. [3] [4]
- Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1): This calculates the amount of air that a person can force out of their lungs in 1 second. FEV1 values that are lower than average suggest the presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). [5]
- Total Lung Capacity (TLC): This is about 80 percent of total capacity, or 4.8 liters, because some air remains in your lungs after you exhale. [4]
Please note that these are general ranges and the “normal” range can vary based on individual factors like age, sex, height, and ethnicity.
Lung function is important for our health and life because it affects the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide that circulates in our blood.
Oxygen is essential for the cells of our body to produce energy and perform various functions, while carbon dioxide is a waste product that needs to be removed from the body.
If lung function is impaired, it can lead to various respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer and more.
These diseases can reduce the quality of life and increase the risk of mortality. Therefore, maintaining good lung function is vital for our well-being.
Diet and lifestyle changes for better lung health
Eating a balanced diet is important for overall health of your body, including lung health. Incorporating what foods help repair lungs is crucial to ensure your respiratory system functions at its best.
These lung-loving foods are a must:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Infused with abundant vitamins and antioxidants, they wage war against inflammation and provide a protective shield for your precious lung tissues. Savor their vibrant flavors for enhanced lung function.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dive into the deep blue sea of health with fatty fish like salmon. Bursting with Omega-3 goodness, they’re your ticket to reducing lung inflammation and skyrocketing your lung performance and an enticing option to invigorate your lung health.
- Ginger and Turmeric: Spice up your life and lungs with these dynamic duos. Their anti-inflammatory prowess is a breath of fresh air for respiratory well-being. Let these aromatic ingredients add a zing of support to your lung health journey.
- Stay Refreshed with Hydration: Staying well-hydrated by sipping on ample water daily is not just about quenching your thirst. It’s a vital practice that ensures the delicate mucus lining your airways stays in top-notch condition, making it a breeze to clear and breathe freely.
- Breathe Easy, Live Well: Improving your lung function is a cornerstone of overall health and vitality. Kicking the smoking habit and shielding yourself from the clutches of air pollutants are paramount steps to robust lung health. Smoking wreaks havoc on your lung tissues, hindering their ability to function at their best. Embracing these lifestyle and dietary shifts will propel you towards superior lung function and holistic well-being.
Natural herbs for healthy lungs
Several herbs have been traditionally used to promote lung health and alleviate respiratory symptoms. Infusing your daily regimen with these herbs for lung healing can elevate your overall well-being:
- Thyme: Renowned for its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory attributes, this herb is a true wellness champion. Thyme can help soothe the airways and reduce congestion, promoting easier and more comfortable breathing due to thymol and carvacrol compounds. [6]
- Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus, be it in the form of invigorating oil or a soothing tea, proves to be a powerful ally in your quest for easier breathing. This versatile botanical helps banish bothersome mucus and enhances your respiratory well-being, clearing the path to crisp and refreshing airways. [7] [8]
- Ginger: Besides its anti-inflammatory effects, ginger can help relax the airway muscles. This relaxation can lead to easier and smoother breathing, making it a valuable addition to your regimen for better lung function and respiratory health.
Supplements for lung support
In addition to healthy lung food and lifestyle changes, certain supplements can support lung health and improve lung function. These supplements provide specific benefits for your respiratory system, enhancing your overall well-being:
Vasaka Leaf Extract
Known as a highly operative expectorant, Vasaka helps to soften mucus in the lungs and support a healthy inflammation response. This, in turn, makes breathing easier, as it helps to clear airway obstructions and reduce discomfort. [9]
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
This (NAC) multi-function amino acid supports lung health. It acts as an antioxidant, helping to replenish glutathione levels in your body and, in the process, supporting a vigorous inflammation response essential for maintaining healthy lung function.
The best value for money NAC powder you can get is this one from Nootropics Depot.
Mullein Leaf Extract
Often used as an expectorant, Mullein helps expel mucus and reduce congestion. Additionally, it serves as a demulcent, soothing the respiratory tract to support more comfortable breathing. [9]
Licorice Root
Licorice root extract is a valuable aid in lung health. It helps block enzymes that produce mucus and further supports a healthy inflammation response. It targets the root source of lung discomfort, contributing to a healthier respiratory system. [10]
💡DID YOU KNOW: the word “liquorice” (or “licorice”) comes from Anglo-French “lycorys,” which traces back to Late Latin “liquiritia.” This Latin term finds its roots in the Greek word “γλυκύρριζα,” pronounced as “glykyrrhiza,” where “glyký” means sweet, and “rrhiza” means root. Essentially, it literally translates to ‘sweet root,’ and it’s all connected to Glycyrrhiza glabra. In modern Greek, they spell the genus as “γλυκόριζα,” which is pronounced as “glykoriza.” [11]
Oregano Extract
Oregano contains several compounds that improve the efficiency of the respiratory tract by reducing congestion at its source. It also aids in soothing the lungs, promoting better lung function and more comfortable breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
To wrap up
Embrace the power of your lungs for a healthier, more vibrant life. Elevate your well-being by nurturing these vital organs through natural means.
With simple dietary and lifestyle adjustments, the incorporation of lung-enhancing herbs, and the option of lung health supplements, you can fortify your respiratory system, unlocking the rewards of enhanced lung function. Your path to better health begins with your breath!
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