Delhi Pollution: Eat these 11 foods to improve lung health

It is once again that time of the year, when the national capital feels suffocated and suffers from breathing issues due to dip in the air quality. As per experts, the presence of high amounts of pollutants causes a hoard of health issues ranging from respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis and emphysema to heart diseases and even diabetes. Hence, it is important to take preventive measures and protect our lungs. The foremost step is to eat a well-balanced diet, as foods work as the primary shield and protect the body from all sorts of diseases. Here is a list of foods that can protect you from the detrimental effects of pollution. (Image: istock)

Jaggery helps relax bronchial muscles and makes it easy to breathe and also increases the airflow to the lungs. (Image: istock)

They are rich in fat and are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids which are linked with lung health. These are also known as poly-unsaturated fatty acids that are rich in anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-oxidative properties. All these properties protect the lungs from all kinds of lung diseases and the harmful effects of air pollution.(Image: istock)

As per a study conducted by a team of doctors in London where they studied more than 2,500 men aged 45-49, it was found that good lung function was associated with high intakes of vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, citrus fruits, apples, and fruit juices.(Image: istock)

It is another rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and regular consumption of walnut is helpful in fighting asthma and other respiratory conditions.(Image: istock)

It contains nitrate compounds that optimize lung functioning. As per experts, nitrates help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and optimize oxygen uptake. Also, beetroot is rich in magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and carotenoid antioxidants, which are essential to lung health.(Image: istock)

It is rich in allicin and has anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces damage caused by free radicals. It has been proven that regular consumption of garlic also lowers the risk of infections and inflammation, which can cause respiratory disorders like asthma or bronchitis.(Image: istock)

Chilli is rich in a compound called capsaicin, which helps in the secretion of the mucous, thereby clearing it from the respiratory tract and protecting the mucous membrane and improving respiratory health. It is also a rich source of beta-carotene, which helps protect the body from asthma.(Image: istock)

It contains a variety of plant compounds that help promote lung health. It is also rich in carotenoids, including beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.(Image: istock)

It is rich in a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps fight bacteria-borne infections and illnesses. It also acts as a natural shield against asthma. It is suggested to consume kachi haldi, in the form of Turmeric Milk for maximum benefits.(Image: istock)

It is rich in vitamin C, carotenoids, folate, and phytochemicals that help fight lung infections. As per a study, broccoli helps eliminate the nicotine toxins and the sulforaphane in it heals the lungs from the damage caused due to smoking too.(Image: istock)

It has anti-inflammatory properties and is a natural adaptogen that keeps the adrenal system healthy. It also works as a protective shield for the lungs. (Image: istock)

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