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Your lungs are an essential organ of the respiratory system that allows it to make oxygen for your body. It is either located on the side of the chest that occupies the thoracic region, an area that lies between the neck and the abdomen. Researchers claim that a person typically takes 22,000 breaths every 24 hours, which means that you may release up to 17.5 millilitres of water when you exhale.
The capital city has been breathing poor air for the past month and it is expected to remain the same for the upcoming days. To curb the situation, as of November 21, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) stated that the Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached 370 in New Delhi. Following the deteriorating air quality in the national capital the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) III across the city to control vehicular and industrial emissions.
When the AQI increases, a person may have certain health problems like inflammation, irritation, and reduced function of your lungs, which is crucial for breathing. You cannot stop illnesses associated with smog, including respiratory health problems when the air quality is poor but you can definitely take procative measure by taking care your your lungs.
"Sulforaphane is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. It is made from a substance called glucoraphanin, which is especially found in green vegetables. Sulforaphane helps clear the airways by removing impurities from the lungs, "Deepika Dua Arora, founder and dietitian of Mutation Diet Clinic explains. "Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant and immunity booster. Pollution increases oxidative stress in the body, which vitamin C rapidly reduces. Vitamin C cleanses the lungs and improves breathing." To detoxify your lungs at this critical time, we've curated some of the best foods that are rich in Sulforaphane and Vitamin C.
Here's the list:
Broccoli: This food is known as one of the richest natural source of sulforaphane and vitamin C. The dioxide and anti-inflammatory compound found in broccoli is known to support your cellular protection. It helps your lungs to cope up with environmental pollutants, which is crucial for breathing.
Oranges: Citrus fruits are always known as the best sources to fight back against pollution. Oranges are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids that helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
Ginger: Another great recommendation by healthcare professionals to fight environmental Pollutants is ginger. If you want to protect your lungs and your overall well-being, eating fresh ginger into your diet can support your body to naturally clear mucus that hinder proper flow of respiratory function.
Turmeric: This kitchen ingredients is a powerful antioxidant known for protecting lungs from harmful air pollutants. Combining turmeric with black pepper is a best combination especially when trying to reduce inflammation and protect respiratory wellness.
Green tea: If you are someone who enjoys sipping green tea then should definitely keep it up. Adding this antioxidant rich drink to your diet when the air quality is poor outside can work wonders in protecting your lung health.
Garlic: Using garlic in your tea and dishes can reduce inflammation and irritation of your lungs due to air pollutants. This food contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which are essential compounds needed to detoxify your lungs.
Spinach: consuming seasonal food like spinach can aid in maintaining respiratory wellness. They are rich in vitamin C, folate and beta-carotene that managers inflammation triggered by pollutants.
Tomatoes: Another widely availabl food throughout all seasons is tomato loaded with powerful antioxidant known to improve lung function. You can make a tomato puree for pasta or chutneys to spice up your meal.
Carrots: Experts explain that the beta-carotene found in carrots converts into vitamin A when you consume, an essential nutrient required for maintaining healthy respiratory tissue. This nutritious fruit loaded with and dioxide can help your body to fight against pollution exposure.
Walnuts: Another great food that is good for improving lung function, especially during this critical time of the year is walnut. They are also rich in vitamin C that can support your immune function and neutralise harmful free radicals.
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