Diwali 2024: Well we all are well aware of the benefits of drinking fluids for lung health. Drinking even plain water can help thin the mucus lining of your airways and lungs, making it easier to breathe.
According to Dr Sayyeda Uneza Fatima, Sr Physiotherapist and Health Educator at Fast&Up, in undamaged airways, oxygenated air moves easily through tubes, helped along by tiny hairs that line the airways called cilia. Mucus has an important role in your lung’s immune response because it traps irritants in your airways and helps allow your body to expel them through coughing.
But in conditions like COPD, Bronchiectasis and Cystic Fibrosis this mucus production becomes excessive and its thick and sticky, making it difficult to breathe. Along with medication and physiotherapy you can includes these drinks in your routine to help the Lung health, Dr. Fatima said.
5 drinks that you should include in lung health
- Turmeric Milk: Turmeric milk, also known as golden milk, may help with lung health due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, The curcumin in turmeric can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, Turmeric milk may have immune-boosting effects that can help fight off infections
- Orange Juice: Vitamin C can be important for lung health because of its antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and role in collagen production. Vitamin C may protect the lungs from oxidative stress. It can also help reduce oxidative damage to the lungs.
- Electrolyte drink: Electrolytes, such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium, are salts that help with lung function and respiratory health. Low magnesium intake is associated with lower lung function, including airway flow rates and increased risk of wheezing. Potassium helps muscles contract, including the muscles in the respiratory system. Low potassium intake is associated with lower lung volumes and flows
- N-Acetylcysteine: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement form of of the amino acid cysteine,N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is widely used because of its mucolytic effects, taking part in the therapeutic protocols of cystic fibrosis. It breaks down the thick mucus and thins it out making it easier to clear the lungs, nowadays its available dissolving tablet form that can be drinked easily.
- Blueberry Smoothies: Blueberry smoothies can be a healthy choice for lung health because berries are rich in antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and mucus in the lungs. Blueberries Contain anthocyanins, an antioxidant that can help protect lung tissue from oxidative damage.
Always remember if you have any underlying diseases specifically kidney, heart and liver contact your healthcare provider before making these changes in your routine, Dr. Fatima said.