Weight-loss, hair and makeup, spa treatments are all well and good. But unfortunately, most of us hardly pay attention to our internal organs when in reality, our bodies are nothing without our lungs, kidneys, hearts, and stomachs, etc. What we eat, how much we exercise, our genetics and environmental conditions are just some of the major factors that affect them. Especially these days, looking after our lungs has become imperative.

The good news is that with the help of certain foods, we can keep them in top shape. As compiled from Pinkvilla, here are five items that have been proven to decrease inflammation, open up the airways and protect against pulmonary diseases.

Apples

You must have heard the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away?” Well, it’s true. Phytochemicals present in apples decrease oxidative stress and inflammation and the same can enhance pulmonary function. As per a study published in The European Respiratory Journal, apples can improve lung function significantly, especially in former smokers.

Green Tea

Green tea is one of the popular food items among fitness freaks and why not? Its consumption has several health benefits, especially for the lungs. Antioxidants, polyphenols and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) can be found in green tea and these nutrients can prevent lung diseases, including cancer. The presence of a compound called theophylline acts as a bronchodilator which makes airway function better.

Ginger and garlic

The cooking staples are not only rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but also several other medicinal benefits that can help to keep certain lung-based health issues at bay.

Bananas

Bananas are packed with nutrients such as potassium, fiber and vitamin C and all these help to improve lung health as well. So, if you have been experiencing lung problems, then bananas may be your way out.

Turmeric

Turmeric is another commonly used food item that has been used to treat many different health issues for centuries. Its inclusion in the daily diet can keep lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, acute respiratory distress syndrome, lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis at bay.