12 Foods That Can Improve Lung Health

12 Foods That Can Improve Lung Health

When it comes to maintaining optimal lung health, lifestyle and nutrition can play a crucial role. Adding certain foods to daily meals can help strengthen the lungs, improve respiratory function, and reduce the risk of lung-related ailments. Further, when dealing with respiratory conditions, food can aid exercise, treatment, and healthy lifestyle changes in strengthening the lungs. So, one should choose from the following nutrient-rich foods that are known to have positive effects on lung health. 

Apples
Apples are known to help fight diseases. But what makes the fruit such an excellent addition? Quercetin is an antioxidant found in high quantities in apples. Antioxidants help improve lung function and overall health, keeping the body up and running. Another benefit of adding apples to daily meals is that the fruit helps the lungs recover from infections and diseases. 

Beets
Beet is one of the best foods to strengthen the lungs. It also helps regulate blood pressure and assists in increasing oxygen intake. Loaded with minerals and nutrients, including nitrates, beetroot can help vessels relax, thus increasing oxygen uptake. Beet can be added to meals, side dishes, or salads. Recipes like hummus can also use beetroot to enhance their flavor and color.

Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a fall favorite. But apart from being great ingredients for snacks and beverages, pumpkins are great for health. They contain carotenoids that help reduce inflammation and the risk of lung cancer. One can also add pumpkin seeds to daily meals to boost magnesium, the lack of which can affect lung function. Roasted pumpkin seeds make for great mid-day snacks. Pumpkins also contain vitamins C and E and beta carotene, which can help improve the immune system.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene—a strong antioxidant that is known to help fight respiratory conditions. Adding a single tomato to the daily meal plan can help reduce the risk of inflammation in the airways and a decline in lung health. One can add tomatoes to salads, curries, sandwiches, or pizza, as it is a versatile ingredient found in every kitchen. 

Turmeric
Turmeric offers many health benefits, including improving lung health. The spice contains a compound called curcumin which is known to fight inflammation and damage to the lungs. It is often added to tea or hot water, along with daily meals, to fight bouts of common cold and flu. However, it can also serve as a preventative measure to strengthen the lungs. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties make it capable of keeping diseases and infections at bay. Turmeric can be used in its fresh, powdered, or grated forms. One can also get supplements containing the spice. It is a great addition to savory and sweet recipes, milk, and tea. One can add some ground black pepper to turmeric recipes to boost the effectiveness of the spice.

Edamame
Studies suggest that foods rich in isoflavones have been associated with a lower risk of developing COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and other respiratory illnesses. Edamamde is one the most easily available foods that contain a high amount of isoflavones. It helps improve lung function and relieves wheezing and shortness of breath.

Licorice
Licorice root tea, supplements, or herbal beverages are known to improve respiratory and cardiac health. Although research is yet to establish the exact link, licorice is associated with improved lung function, reduced risk of heart disease, and better management of lung cancer symptoms.

Coffee
Many people with asthma consider coffee a powerful drink that can relieve their symptoms. As many as two cups of coffee in a day can significantly relieve asthma symptoms and strengthen the lungs. Caffeine can be a mild bronchodilator, an effect that lasts for a while, up to 4 hours, after having a cup of coffee. So, it can improve airway function temporarily.

Peppers
Vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants that also happens to be easily available in common foods. Peppers also contain high levels of this antioxidant. For those with compromised respiratory systems, it is important to increase the vitamin C intake to maintain optimal function. Further, those who are constantly exposed to pollutants that weaken the respiratory system should increase vitamin C intake to fight the effects of such irritants and improve lung health.

Grapes
Fruits that are rich in water content, along with essential vitamins and minerals, are great for the lungs. Grapes are one such fruit that contains disease-fighting antioxidants and are known to improve lung health and fight inflammation in nasal passages. According to the American Lung Association, getting a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fresh fruits and vegetables can help one improve lung and digestive health.

Nuts
Another healthy option to deal with cravings is nuts or seeds. Packed with healthy fats and some vital minerals, nuts provide the body with essential nutrients and energy needed for proper functioning. For example, walnuts contain magnesium which can strengthen the lung muscles and omega-3 fatty acids that fight inflammation in the organs.

Berries
Berries are among the healthiest foods to add to daily meals. Full of vitamins and minerals, the bright, juicy treats are rich in flavonoids—antioxidants that can free radical damage in the lungs. They also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve symptoms of various lung diseases like asthma, COPD, and more. So, one should add blueberries and strawberries to daily meals to improve lung health.

By making better food choices and adopting healthy habits, one can improve lung function and lower the risk of respiratory illnesses. Further, decreasing exposure to pollutants, allergens, and irritants can help one keep infections at bay. However, one should consult a doctor or a licensed nutritionist before making drastic changes to daily meals to avoid developing a deficiency of essential nutrients. 

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Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

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10 human foods that are safe and nutritious for cats

Parenting a cat is a wonderful experience. But it may stir up several questions, including what foods are safe for them. Of course, you'd want to feed the feline treats and package cat food designed for them. But introducing human foods could help add more nutrition to their meals. You may also want to avoid cooking separate meals for them all the time. Therefore, here are ten safe options that you could feed your cat. Spinach Spinach is a highly nutritious food that is not only beneficial for humans but also safe for cats. It is abundant in healthy properties such as vitamins A, C, and K. The leafy green vegetable is also high in minerals, including calcium and iron, which are essential to boost your feline pet's overall health. You could steam spinach without additional spices, salts, or seasoning, as these ingredients are unsafe for cats. Cats do not like vegetables, so you should add small amounts of cooked leafy greens to their meal regime. Salmon Introducing fish options like salmon to your cat's meal regime is one of the best ways to improve their nutritional intake. The food contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for their health. The fish also contains proteins, vitamins, and minerals such as potassium, selenium, niacin, and vitamins B6 and B12. Salmon could be served to cats as a standalone treat or mixed with other meals. But you should ensure the food is cooked (not raw) before feeding it to your pet cat. Furthermore, it is also essential to remove the fish's bones, head, and tail to avoid choking after consumption. Eggs Foods like eggs are as delicious as they are healthy for cats. However, before you serve it to your pet, ensure the food is cooked. If the eggs are served raw, it may introduce food-borne illnesses like E. coli or salmonella to your pet's system, which could trigger illnesses and diseases. Moreover, ensure that you feed them scrambled or boiled eggs without the egg yolk or additional seasoning. Adding eggs to their meal regime could help nourish their body with proteins and B vitamins required to manage their health. Chicken This is another healthy food addition that you could add to your pet's meal plan. Cook the meat thoroughly before serving it to the feline. Moreover, chicken skin contains fat, so removing it could help reduce its absorption by a cat's digestive system. Also, stick to serving lean chicken bits without the bones to prevent a choking hazard. As for its benefits, chicken is rich in proteins, which could help manage heart health, improve reproductive health, and complement vision. Cheese Most of us enjoy dairy products like cheese occasionally. The good news is that the food is also beneficial for cats. The food is a rich source of calcium and protein, which are nutrients that could gain their attention immediately. The food is also low in carbs, which is nice considering cats do not require the element in their meal regime. You could also hide your cat's prescription in tiny bites of cheese after consultation with an expert to make the treatment option easier for them to digest. You should also ensure they eat cheese in moderation, as too much cheese could harm their digestive health. Bananas Since cats are obligate carnivores, they may also dislike eating fruits like bananas. However, adding food to their meals could benefit their overall health in several ways. The best way to get your pet to like bananas is by turning them into an attractive snack. You can do this by slicing up the fruit and freezing it before giving it to them as a treat occasionally. The fruit is abundant in potassium, which could help regulate body functions, including nerve impulses, muscle contractions, and heart function. It also contains soluble fibers that improve their digestive health. However, avoid giving them too many banana slices to eat as it could adversely affect their health. Watermelon Watermelons are dense in a range of healthy nutrients necessary to boost your pet's health. It contains benefits such as vitamins A, B1, B5, and C, which may improve their overall health. Magnesium and potassium are other elements that could complement your pet's well-being. To get your feline friend to eat the fruit, you may need to slice it up into shapes of your choice and freeze it. Once they are frozen, lay out some pieces between meals for them to enjoy. Also, as watermelon seeds may trigger a choking hazard, it is better that you remove them. Strawberries Strawberries are abundant in nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fibers, and antioxidants that help manage your cat's health. Cut them into bite-sized pieces before serving them to your feline pets. You could also freeze these slices of strawberry, and your cat may still enjoy munching on them. Apart from strawberries, you could add alternatives like blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, and blueberries to your pet's meal regime to help improve their nutritional levels. Oatmeal Oatmeal is a breakfast cereal that is safe and healthy for your pet cat. The food is a rich source of vitamins B and E, selenium, iron, fiber, manganese, antioxidants, and folic acid. These properties are essential to strengthen your pet's nails, teeth, and bones. The food is also a healthy whole grain that helps manage your pet's digestion. Furthermore, introducing oatmeal to your cat's meal plans may improve zinc absorption, which is necessary for healthy skin and fur. The cereal is also rich in manganese, which is known to help manage the bones and thyroid in pet cats. Other whole grains foods to add to your pet's meal plans include barley, couscous, brown rice, cooked millet, and wheat berries.

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