Our lungs are a spongy, elastic organ inside the rib cage that expands and contracts as we breathe. Its job is to oxygenate our blood.

Lung health, which is a vital organ, is extremely important. In order to keep your lungs in great condition, it is very important to stay away from common bad habits such as not smoking and not drinking alcohol, along with eating a healthy diet.

In general, aim to eat a variety of foods from each food group to keep your lungs happy. For example; more vegetables and less processed food is better for almost everyone.

The Best Foods for Lung Health

High Fiber Foods

Raspberries, peas, lentils and black beans are high in fiber, which is great for your lungs. Studies show that people who eat more fiber have better functioning lungs than those who don't eat fiber. Other fiber-rich foods include whole-wheat spaghetti, baked beans, chia seeds, quinoa, pears, and broccoli.

Coffee

Research points to a link between regular coffee and healthier lungs. This may be due to caffeine, which is anti-inflammatory, and polyphenols, which are antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are great for your lungs. These include brown rice, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, oats, quinoa and barley. Whole grain foods are not only rich in fiber, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but are also packed with vitamin E, selenium, and essential fatty acids that are good for lung health.

Fruits

Red and blue berries, such as blueberries and strawberries, are rich in a flavonoid called anthocyanin, which gives them their color and is also a powerful antioxidant. Research shows that this pigment slows the natural decline of your lungs as you age.

Green Vegetables

Spinach, chard, and other leafy greens may lower your chances of getting lung cancer. One study found that green vegetables are particularly good for this purpose. This may be because they are high in carotenoids, which are antioxidants.

Milk, Cheese and Yogurt

Research shows that drinking milk and eating cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products can lower your chances of dying from lung cancer. If you don't have allergies, dairy products have been linked to anti-inflammatory properties.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the richest source of lycopene linked to lung health. Eating tomato products like tomatoes and tomato juice can improve airway inflammation if you have asthma and reduce your chances of death if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Source: WebMD