According to clinical dietitian Garima Goyal, ginger has a thermic effect that provides warmth to the body, which is essential for soothing the airway.
As the seasons change, so does the body’s ability to combat infections, making it advisable to consume seasonal and fresh foods. Surprisingly, some foods are particularly beneficial for lung health, according to Chinese medicine.
Dr. Lily Choi, a licensed acupuncturist, noted that in Chinese medicine, autumn corresponds to the lungs and large intestine. Anything that benefits the lungs also aids the skin, helps manage grief and sadness, and assists in letting go of what no longer serves us. Proper lung function depends on strong digestion, as the digestive system is connected to the lungs.
Here are some of the foods recommended for lung health:
- Honey: Dr. Choi stated that honey supports the stomach and lung’s energetic functions. Pure honey can relieve coughs, moisturize the intestines for smoother stool, and alleviate pain. It’s advisable to choose raw, local, and organic honey for purity and potency. Honey can also break up mucus obstructing the airway and reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes, according to clinical dietitian Garima Goyal.
- Pears: Pears help regenerate bodily fluids, quench thirst, calm the heart, lubricate the lungs, and more. They contain potent phytonutrients, such as catechins, which protect the lungs from chronic diseases. High catechin consumption is associated with a lower incidence of chronic cough and breathlessness, reducing phlegm production.
- Scallions (Green Onions): Scallions, with their warm and spicy essence in the white bottoms and liver-nourishing properties in the green tops, support the lungs and open up circulation to the lungs, chest, and skin. They’ve been used in Ayurveda as decongestants and expectorants.
- Ginger: Ginger is beneficial for the spleen system and also aids the lungs. It warms the body’s middle and the lungs, helping with coughs, colds, nausea, and indigestion. Combining ginger with honey can help remove mucus from the lungs due to ginger’s thermic effect, which provides warmth to the body.
- Fermented Foods: These foods optimize intestinal flora for immune and digestive health. Spicy foods like garlic, chili peppers, radishes, and daikon support the lungs.
- Blue Flower Tea: Blue tea leaf extract has anti-asthmatic properties and can be an alternative for respiratory disorder treatment. It has anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for colds, coughs, and lung irritation.
- Foxtail Millet: This grain strengthens the lungs and respiratory system, aiding recovery during illnesses. It’s also beneficial for the heart, type 2 diabetes, and preventing anemia.
- Amla (Gooseberry): Amla is rich in vitamin C, improving immunity and clearing bronchial infections.
- Pineapple Juice: Pineapple juice contains bromelain, which helps clear lung congestion.
- Holy Basil (Tulsi): Holy basil, or tulsi, is known for its respiratory benefits.
These foods can support lung health and overall well-being, especially during the autumn season.
