It is crucial to keep the lungs healthy in order to prevent the onset and escalation of serious conditions. There is a possibility that harmful toxins in the environment and consumption of inflammatory foods can lead to ailments such as chronic MAC infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis. Altering lifestyles and eating a nutrient-rich food regime can boost lung health. Here are five foods that can improve the function of the lungs.

Beetroots and beet greens
Beetroots are beneficial for the lungs, as they contain nitrates that relax blood vessels, decrease blood pressure, and improve oxygen levels in the body. On the other hand, beet greens are rich in magnesium and potassium, both minerals that boost lung health and help manage chronic MAC disease.

Apples
Apples, filled with beneficial flavonoids and a phytonutrient called quercetin, have always been known to keep doctors at bay. This fruit also contains phytochemicals that help keep your lungs healthy and your throat passageways clear. Apples contain all the good antioxidants that prevent chronic ailments.

Ginger
This immunity booster is an age-old remedy that helps keep the respiratory system healthy. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory spice and relaxes muscles of the lung tissue. A cup of ginger tea after your last meal aids digestion too.

Bananas
Bananas strengthen the heart and prevent oxidative damage of cells caused by free radicals. It is loaded with potassium and fibers that help promote lung function. Bananas are one of the fruits that people of all ages can consume.

Tomatoes
Lycopene is a carotenoid antioxidant that improves lung health, and tomatoes are full of them. They help in reducing inflammation of the airways in patients with asthma. Tomatoes boost immunity, too, as they are rich in potassium and vitamin C.

Further, the right foods can help fight infections like the common cold. For instance, antioxidant-rich foods like citrus fruits and berries—blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries—can boost the immune system and have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. When dealing with a cold, one can add such fruits to smoothies and salads or have them as is.

Air purifiers are technologically advanced devices that help rid the indoor air of pollutants and allergens. Installing an air purifier can help with improving lung health. Some types of air purifiers may even help in eliminating odor from your rooms. HEPA filter air purifiers are capable of removing up to 99.7% of particulate matter present in the air. Some of the most recommended brands of HEPA filters include Hamilton Beach, Honeywell, GermGuardian, and Philips.

Asthma is covered under Medicare Part A in case someone requires hospital care for an asthma attack. The condition is also covered under standard health insurance policies and may cover hospitalization costs, diagnostic tests, among other costs. It is best to check with the respective insurance policy provider to understand the terms and conditions.

People with eosinophilic esophagitis might also have a weaker pair of lungs. It is a condition in which eosinophils are found in the esophagus and can cause difficulty in breathing. If left untreated, it can also be a cause of eosinophilic asthma and other lung-related complications.

Further, patients with weak lungs can also have allergic or allergy-induced asthma. This condition is caused by the release of histamine or histamine intolerance. During an allergic reaction, one may experience difficulty breathing due to the narrowing of the bronchial tubes in the lungs. This discomfort can be managed with the help of antihistamines that prevent histamines from bonding with the receptors.

Apart from food, things like daily exercise, deep breathing practices, clean air at home, yearly health checkups, and staying updated on vaccinations can help keep lungs healthy.