Foods that help your respiratory system.

Your lungs allow you to absorb oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. In addition to healthy lifestyle practices, certain foods help strengthen your respiratory system.

Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables supply rich amounts of antioxidants -- nutrients that support your immune system's ability to protect your body from challenges.

The antioxidant vitamin C, prevalent in red bell peppers, citrus fruits and juices, papaya, kiwi, leafy greens, cabbage and Brussels sprouts provide help to your respiratory system. Incorporate a variety of colorful, whole fruits and green leafy vegetables into your meals and snacks regularly.

Fatty Fish: Fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, lake trout, flounder, halibut, and sardines, are prime sources of omega-3 fatty acids, the healthy fats associated with improved heart health and brain function.

Use low-fat cooking methods, such as broiling, baking, and steaming to prevent excessive saturated fat intake.

Warm Fluids: Warm fluids, such as herbal teas, broth, soups and warm water, promote hydration and help your body flush toxins away. Chicken soup is valuable for colds, mucus, and sore throats linked with respiratory conditions. It provides amino acids, which enhance lean tissue repair and physical strength.

To make your soup protein-packed; add beans, lentils, fish and turkey breast. Incorporate vegetables into soups providing additional antioxidant benefits. Opt for broth-based soups, since milk-based cream soups often increase mucus production. Save