The lungs are an essential respiratory organ, located near the backbone on either side of the heart. Their primary function is to transport oxygen from the air into the bloodstream and to discharge carbon dioxide from the bloodstream into the air. The body’s cells required oxygen to work and grow. The lungs never rest. In just one day, healthy people take breaths nearly 25,000 times.
There are several things that you can do to keep your lungs functioning properly. Simple lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and healthy routines can be highly helpful for your lungs. Here are some of the methods to keep your lungs strong and healthy.
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Tip#1 Quit Smoking
If you smoke, it is time to quit improving the condition of your lungs. Cigarette smoke contains thousands of risky chemicals, some of which can reason health problems. Smoking is the primary reason for serious lung diseases like lung cancer and COPD. It can narrow the air passages and make breathing more difficult. Cigarette causes chronic inflammation or swelling in the lungs. With time, cigarette smoke can damage lung tissues, which in turn increases your danger of lung cancer.
If you suffer from any kind of lung disease, giving up smoking can help control your condition and recover your quality of life.
Be determined to quit smoking and get help from professionals if required.
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Tip#2 Limit Your Exposure to Pollutants
In addition to cigarette smoke, there are many other pollutants present in the air that is unsafe for your lungs as well as overall health. Even the synthetic fragrances used in many laundry products and air fresheners emit toxic chemicals. Avoid highly polluted and industrialized places.
Do your bit to minimize outdoor pollution and help creates a cleaner atmosphere. For instance, whenever possible, ride your bicycle instead of driving.
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Tip#3 Improve Indoor Air
In the late 1980s NASA research, it was found that several houseplants act as natural air cleaners as they filter out common volatile organic compounds (VOCs) containing formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. Use at least two houseplants per 100 square feet of space. These plants should be in 12-inch pots.
Get indoor flowers such as a fern, spider plant, peace lily, bamboo palm, aloe vera, English Ivy, and others. Make sure to keep the greenery dust-free. Also, do not overwater the flowers as it may lead to mold growth. Minimize the use of harsh domestics and purifiers with strong fragrances. Evade using aerosol sprays. Ensure sufficient ventilation.
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Tip#4 Do Deep Breathing Exercises daily.
Inhaling feeds oxygen to every cell in the body. Without sufficient oxygen, people are more prone to lung issues and even heart disease.
With regular deep breathing exercises, you can simply strengthen your lungs. It can also help wash out toxins that may have built up in the lungs. This, in turn, helps recover lung performance and clear airways. Sit down in a comforting and quiet place. Close your eyes, and inhale in deeply through your nose. Count to five, slowly breathing the entire time. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then respire slowly. Repeat this inhaling exercise 6 to 8 times. Perform this deep breathing exercise regularly to help cleanse your lungs and keep you stress-free.
If you are not able to master the art of deep inhaling, join a breathing club where people with lung and breathing issues can learn about this method.
Updated: 17 July 2020
