Human lungs play a crucial role in facilitating healthy functioning of the body. Also, they take oxygen from the environment to our bloodstream, which is then transferred all over the body. Lungs also protect the heart by acting as a shock absorber in instances of mild collisions.
However, it is a fact that most of us only realise the value of this important organ once we develop breathing difficulty. Haven’t you noticed how bad shortness of breath feels?
In this post, you will see some important tips that will help you to have excellent respiratory health to breathe easily. Once you start doing it consistently, you will see your overall lung capacity increasing as well. So here it goes,
- Improve Body Posture
Several studies have shown slouched sitting can significantly decrease lung capacity, as this position tends to squeeze the lungs. This then makes the lung smaller as well. So it is vital for every individual to practise sitting straight . Exercises like free squats and planks go a long way in improving the body posture. Having a good posture leaves a positive impact on your personality as well.
- Be Physically Active
One of the best ways to boost your lung capacity is to be constantly physically active. Even daily exercises like jogging and brisk walking can do a lot of wonders to your overall health. The primary reason for this is because exercising improves the functioning of the lungs, making it more efficient and robust. Laughing is another activity that works on the abdominal muscles, eventually improving your overall lung capacity.
- Get Your Daily Dose of Vitamin D
Several studies have shown that higher levels of Vitamin D are associated with better lung functioning. In summers, you don’t have to worry much as you will get enough Vitamin D from the sunlight. In winters, it could be a problem. So it suggested that you have enough Vitamin D rich foods like milk, mushrooms, egg yolks, and fishes like Salmon and Herring. Also, have an overall balanced diet if possible, as it will only improve your respiratory health.
- Ensure Good Air Quality at Home
You can’t have a healthy respiratory system if you have bad air and dust contained in your home. Daily cleaning of your home is a must if you are serious about breathing about good quality air. If you are living in cities, you may have to tackle the menace of air pollution too. It is suggested in this case that you buy a good air purifier which filters away harmful pollutants from your house, keeping your house clean.
- Quit the Habit of Smoking
One of the biggest dangers to human lungs today is cigarettes, which can prove fatal for those who are dealing with asthma and other respiratory disorders. Smoking reduces the number of airspaces and blood vessels in the lungs, resulting in less transportation of oxygen to critical parts of the body. While it is highly difficult to quit cigarettes at once, you can take the help of some better alternatives. E-cigarettes for example are gadgets that mimic the traditional cigarettes while effectively removing the harmful tobacco from it. A lot of research has shown vaping is considered safer, in comparison to smoking.
- Hydrate Yourself Thoroughly
Staying hydrated is essential to ensure excellent functioning of the lungs, as it keeps the mucosal lining thin. It is also important to drink plenty of water if you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), as water makes it easier to cough up the mucus, letting you breathe easier. While plain water is an excellent source of hydration, it is also good if you consume enough fruit juice, decaffeinated coffee, and milk on a regular basis.
- Visit Your Doctor Regularly
Ignoring even small breathing discomfort can be highly detrimental, as many respiratory diseases start with wheezing. It is recommended that you visit your doctor on a consistent basis. A lung specialist or a pulmonologist can detect minor issues in the lungs which otherwise can deteriorate if left unchecked. Talk to your doctor if you have shortness of breath, wheezing, lingering cough, or pain while inhaling.
In a Nutshell,
Breathing is vital for life and how well you breathe determines the quality of our living as well. It then becomes highly important to take care of your respiratory organs to continue leading a good lifestyle. Hopefully, these strategies will help you to get rid of problems that hamper your breathing and also your overall health as well.
