The lungs help absorb oxygen and expel carbon dioxide during normal respiration. But with advancing age, the muscles of this vital organ begin to gradually deteriorate and not function well as they used to. To prevent health complications that may arise out of weak lung functions, nutritionists recommend incorporating certain nutrient-rich foods and beverages to promote better breathing. Here are the top 10 foods that boost lung overall lung health and immunity.

Bananas
Potassium is one essential nutrient that’s well known for boosting lung function. And bananas are a naturally rich source of this nutrient. This fruit is suitable for consumption across all ages.

Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene, which is an active compound that has been known to reduce airway inflammation and weakening of lung muscles. This fruit (yes, fruit!) is also rich in potassium and vitamin C that help boost immunity.

Garlic
Garlic is a potent spice that can be easily incorporated into daily cooking. Garlic cloves are loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radical damage and protect the lung cells to promote better breathing function.

Ginger
Ginger is another excellent herb/spice rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe smooth muscles of the lung tissue. Smooth muscles help breathe easy and promote better respiratory function.

Apples
An apple a day can prove to be quite beneficial as it contains an active compound called quercetin. Studies show that quercetin boosts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses in the body to boost lung health.

Beetroots
Beets are a rich source of nitrates, catenoids, vitamin C, and magnesium among other nutrients that helps optimize oxygen intake in the body. This food promotes good lung function and improves overall respiratory function.

Leafy greens and cruciferous veggies
Spinach, kale, bok choy, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and even cauliflower are rich sources of proteins, carotenoids, iron, potassium, vitamins, and l-sulforaphane among other beneficial anti-inflammatory compounds. Combined, a healthy portion of these veggies counter free radical damage of healthy lung cells.

Eggs
Proteins are the building blocks of muscles, including lung muscles to support breathing. Eggs are rich sources of protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids that help maintain muscle mass and promote better immunity to reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses.

Fatty fish
Fatty fish are loaded with essential omega-3s. And studies show that a healthy intake of this fatty acid can significantly bring down the risk of lung disease and improve cardiovascular health. These healthy fats also have the lowest carbon dioxide released during the body’s metabolism. Popular choices include salmon, anchovies, and sardines.

Tea and coffee
Both beverages are loaded with essential polyphenols and caffeine that promote better anti-inflammatory and antioxidant function. Also, in place of sugar, use jaggery powder to sweeten the beverages.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and asthma are respiratory conditions. IPF causes scarring and hardening of lung tissues and reduces breathing capacity.

Esbriet®
An FDA-approved treatment option for IPF, Esbriet® slows down the progression of the disease with the help of pirfenidone. 

Tezepelumab
Tezepelumab is a biological treatment option for asthma. It blocks the effect of thymic stromal lymphopoietin preventing uncontrolled and severe asthma attacks. 

NUCALA
 Containing mepolizumab, NUCALA is an injectable maintenance option for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. It is safe for patients aged 6 and above. NUCALA has monoclonal antibodies that help destroy the excessive amount of eosinophils in the bloodstream and decrease the frequency of flare-ups.