The lungs are an essential respiratory organ. Their main function is to
transport oxygen from the atmosphere into the bloodstream and to release carbon
dioxide from the bloodstream into the atmosphere. The lungs never rest. In just
one day, a healthy person breathes nearly 25,000 times. The body has a natural defence
system designed to protect the lungs. This works very well most of the time,
keeping out dirt and fighting off germs. However, several harmful substances
can damage the airways and threaten the lungs’ ability to work properly, which
can lead to lung disease.
Some common lung diseases are asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD), bronchitis, pneumonia, emphysema, cystic fibrosis,
tuberculosis, lung cancer and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
People with lung disease have difficulty breathing and some diseases can even
lead to respiratory failure. There are many things that you can do to keep your
lungs functioning properly. Simple lifestyle changes, dietary changes and
healthy habits can be highly beneficial for your lungs.
how to make lungs healthy
Here are some of the ways to keep your lungs strong and healthy.
1. Quit Smoking
If you smoke, it is time to quit to improve the condition of your lungs.
Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals, some of which can
cause health problems. In fact, smoking is the major cause of serious lung
diseases like lung cancer and COPD. Cigarette smoke can narrow the air passages
and make breathing more difficult. It causes chronic inflammation or swelling
in the lungs. With time, cigarette smoke can destroy lung tissues, which in
turn increases your risk of lung cancer. If you suffer from any kind of lung
disease, giving up smoking can help manage your condition and improve your
quality of life. Be determined to quit smoking and get help from professionals
if needed.
2. Avoid Second hand Smoke
Non-smokers must avoid exposure to second hand smoke to improve the
condition of their lungs. Second hand smoke is highly toxic and can cause havoc
to your lungs and your overall health.
Here are some things you can do to avoid
second hand smoke:
Do not allow other people to smoke in your home, car or workplace.
Support businesses and activities that are smoke-free.
Avoid public places that permit smoking.
Stay at smoke-free hotels when travelling to avoid residual smoke from
previous patrons.
3. Limit Your Exposure to Pollutants
In addition to cigarette smoke, there are various other pollutants
present in the air that are harmful for your lungs as well as overall health.
Even the synthetic fragrances used in various laundry products and air
fresheners emit toxic chemicals. Avoid highly polluted and industrialized
areas. Do your bit to minimize outdoor pollution and help create a cleaner
environment. For example, whenever possible, walk or ride your bicycle instead
of driving.
When building or remodelling your house, opt for eco-friendly options
like formaldehyde-free cabinetry, linoleum instead of vinyl flooring, low or no
VOC paints, etc.
4. Improve Indoor Air
In a late 1980s NASA study, it was found that several houseplants act as
natural air purifiers as they filter out common volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) including formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. Use at least 2
houseplants per 100 square feet of space. These plants should be in 10- to
12-inch pots. Get indoor plants such as a fern, spider plant, peace lily,
bamboo palm, aloevera, English Ivy, dracaena, and others. Make sure to keep the
foliage dust-free. Also, do not overwater the plants as it may lead to mold
growth.
Minimize the use of harsh cleaners and cleaners with strong fragrances. Avoid
using aerosol sprays. Ensure adequate ventilation.
5. Do Deep Breathing Exercises Daily
Breathing feeds oxygen to every cell in the body. Without sufficient
oxygen, people are more prone to lung problems and even heart disease. With
regular deep breathing exercises, you can easily strengthen your lungs. It can
also help clear out toxins that may have built up in the lungs. This in turn
helps improve lung performance and clear airways. Sit down in a relaxing and
quiet place. Close your eyes, and breathe in deeply through your nose. Count to
five, slowly inhaling the entire time. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then
exhale slowly. Repeat this breathing exercise 6 to 8 times.
Perform this deep breathing exercise on a daily basis to help cleanse
your lungs and keep you stress free. If you are not able to master the art of
deep breathing, join a breathing club where people with lung and breathing
problems can learn about this technique.
6. Play a Wind Instrument
You can play a wind instrument like a flute, oboe, tuba, saxophone,
mouth organ or clarinet to improve your lung health. You need to use your
lungs’ capacity to the fullest to play any of these instruments. This gives
your lungs a regular workout and helps improve their air capacity.
Learn how to play a wind instrument to increase your lung capacity.
Also, singing works the diaphragm and keeps your lungs healthy. If music and
singing are not for you, try to blow a balloon using deep breaths to increase
lung capacity. Blow a few balloons daily to improve your lungs’ ability to pump
more air, stronger and longer.
