You owe it to yourself to understand and respect your body. Some traditions say that your body is your temple, and this means caring for it. Your lungs work constantly, so it shouldn't take too much prodding to convince you to consciously respect them for keeping you breathing. Here is a look at why lung health matters, and some supplemental products that can help sustain the strength and efficiency of your lungs.
Your Lungs
Every minute of every day, your lungs and diaphragm work to draw oxygen into your body while expelling CO2 and other gasses that your body produces. They are essential for sustaining your life, as they are for the intake of oxygen that is critical for all physiological functioning.
Your lungs are working constantly, and you don't even have to tell them to. The lungs work at the behest of the
autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is the subsystem within your body's overall nervous system that facilitates all involuntary movement. It is the same system that controls the heart, as well as the smooth muscle functioning of the blood vessels, as well as other organs such as the stomach.
Lung disease is a real issue for many people. There are many forms of it.
Chronic lower respiratory disease (including COPD and asthma) was actually the third-leading cause of death as of about a decade ago.
Take Care of Your Lungs!
Your lifestyle and your repeated behaviors can have a huge influence on your health outcomes. A range of factors can directly affect the lungs. Here are some essential tenets of
avoiding lung disease, and preserving their well-being.
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Don't smoke. Smoking is linked to all kinds of lung disease.
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Avoid pollutants (e.g., exhaust, chemical fumes).
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Seek to avoid infection (especially those over 65 or who have a pre-existing condition).
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Get some moderate aerobic exercise on a regular basis.
Products Which Support the Lungs
Using the right vitamins, nutrients, and minerals can influence the health and well-being of your lungs, and they can do so in a variety of ways. Consider the following supplements as additional factors in a healthy lifestyle for promoting good lung health.
Vitamin A does many things, one of which happens to be the
formulation of alveoli. These are the tiny sacs in the lungs wherein the exchange of gasses takes place. Vitamin A is especially important for the benefit of alveoli growth in the lungs while the baby is still in the womb and in the first few years of life.
Vitamin D contributes to lung health. Multiple types of lung disease or detriment can result, at least in part, from
vitamin D deficiency. Being vitamin D deficient can lead to decreased lung volume, and therefore a hindered ability to consume oxygen. Pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema are two conditions that can be possibly prevented by ensuring you get enough vitamin D.
Glutathione has
natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help address asthma. It is also said to help get rid of some airborne toxins.
N-acetylcysteine is another compound with antioxidant properties. Its positive effect on lung health can make it worthwhile for those experiencing
asthma or chronic bronchitis.
Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in red grapes and wine. Resveratrol can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as
reduce inflammation in the epithelial cells in the lungs. This can help prevent respiratory disease.
Zinc can bolster the immune system and combat inflammation. Taking zinc has also been shown to help
reverse lung damage and even improve survival rates of those diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). IPF is a serious and deadly condition which causes scarring of the lungs.
Take care of your lungs. Exercise, avoidance of toxins, and living healthy are of great benefit to the lungs. The right vitamins and minerals can make a difference for those who experience lung issues. Talk to your doctor about what it could mean to take one of the above supplements for the sake of your lungs' health.
