HEALTHIER LUNGS FOR THE WINTER

Laura Castricone, CRT Article published Sep 11, 2021 Article updated Sep 05, 2023

What can we do to make sure we are prepared to tackle the many opportunistic viruses, increased ozone levels, smoke from wildfires, molds from excessive rains, pollens, and diseases that are out there trying to attack our lungs? Welcome to the ever-changing world of our air quality.

Just like every other system in our bodies, our respiratory system, especially if impaired by disease, needs its own special attention. Whether or not you suffer from asthma, emphysema, or no overt lung disease at all, certain foods and lifestyles lend themselves to healthier lungs.

Tips to Keep Your Lung Healthy

Avoid smoking or second-hand smoke
Avoid smoke-producing activities such as fire pits, fireplaces, bonfires, or burning of vegetation.
Monitor pollen counts and ozone levels (if you are sensitive)
Stay in air conditioning on humid days if possible
Exercise to your ability and within parameters outlined by your provider (if appropriate)
Avoid large crowds and children when flu and other viruses are surging.
Cover your mouth and nose in cold weather if you have cold-induced asthma or are sensitive to cold air.
Use any medications as directed by MD and do not discontinue without physician consultation.
Stay indoors when mold is high...in the Northeast US, we see this in the Fall season when the leaves are down and the ground is wet.
Use an indoor air purifier and/or dehumidifier to enhance air quality

The Breather Respiratory Muscle Training Device

AIRFREE Tulip 1000 Filterless Air Purifier

AIRFREE P1000 Filterless Air Purifier

Foods for Lung Health

Food fuels the body and some foods can act to reduce or repair inflammation, resist certain types of illnesses or help reduce the risks of some cancers.

The Best Foods For Lung Health

Coffee (acts as a mild bronchodilator)
Strawberries and blueberries and other berries (strong antioxidants)
Whole grains for their antioxidant qualities and to help decrease inflammation (fiber)
Green, leafy vegetables (antioxidant and fiber)
High fiber sources
Dairy (although good for bone health can be a problem for anyone with a lot of mucus)
Water (your lungs need hydration to stay healthy and keep mucus thin)

Foods to avoid to maintain lung health

Too much salt (can increase blood pressure and cause retention of fluids)
Too much sugar (can cause inflammation)
Too much alcohol (especially wine which can contain sulfites that can exacerbate asthma and other lung conditions)
Dairy (it can increase the amount of mucus in the airway and lungs)
Bacon, salami, pepperoni, hot dogs, and other processed meats that contain high amounts of salt and fat

Good lung health has never been as important as it has been recently. There are a lot of risks in our everyday lives that we cannot avoid. Viruses, wildfire smoke, weather, pollutants, and pollens. Try to minimize your exposure to irritants and stay healthy by exercising, eating right, and avoiding people who are ill. These are your best defenses. Always remember, if you suffer from any health issues, consult your physician before embarking on any diet or exercise regime. Breathe Easy!

Author Profile: Laura Castricone, Respiratory Therapist

Laura Castricone (Certified Respiratory Therapist)

My name is Laura Castricone and I am a Certified Respiratory Therapist. I have been practicing in the state of Connecticut since 1992. I have worked in several aspects of respiratory care including sleep medicine, critical care, rehab, and home care. I earned my respiratory certification at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. Prior to becoming an RT, I attended the University of Connecticut pursuing a degree in English but left Uconn in my junior year to work with my father in the restaurant business. I stayed with him for over a dozen years. An education, by the way, that can never be bought! Once I married and had children, the restaurant business no longer fit my lifestyle. When my children were one and two years old, I decided to go back to school and that is where my career in respiratory care began. This career has been very rewarding and I have been blessed to meet some extraordinary people along the way. I grew up in Waterbury, CT, and now live in Litchfield County, CT with my husband and our crazy Jack Russell terrier, Hendrix. My hobbies include antiquing, gardening, writing plays, and painting miniature paintings.

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Laura Castricone, CRT

My name is Laura Castricone and I am a Certified Respiratory Therapist. I have been practicing in the state of Connecticut since 1992. I have worked in several aspects of respiratory ...