Five Easy Health Hacks for Respiratory Care
A healthy respiratory system is the base of a physically fit lifestyle. Your lungs perform the most basic function of breathing, and breathing is the foundation of life.
So, how about being smarter with your respiratory care?
With some easy to adopt lifestyle changes and new habits, your respiratory health can get much better.
Here are five hacks for keeping your lungs strong.
Breathing Exercises
Your lung capacity is the total amount of air that your lungs can hold. Some conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) lead to a significant reduction in lung capacity. However, there are exercises that can help maintain and increase your lung capacity, like:
Diaphragmatic breathing, or “belly breathing,” engages the diaphragm and belly while breathing. Pursed-lips breathing can slow down your breathing and can keep your airways open longer. In the Indian culture, Pranayama has been regarded as an effective yogic practice to help in increasing lung capacity. Practicing these daily can help in better functioning of the respiratory system.
No Smoking
Cigarette smoking is the major cause of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cigarette smoke can narrow the air passages and make breathing more difficult. It causes chronic inflammation or swelling in the lung, which can lead to chronic bronchitis. Over time cigarette smoke destroys lung tissue and increases the risk of lung cancer. The best way to fight respiratory illness is by not smoking or – if you do – by quitting immediately. If you smoke, it's never too l late to benefit from quitting.
A Healthier Diet
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean sources of protein helps fight all types of illness. Change your food habits and include more of the following items in your daily diet- Beetroot, Peppers, Apples, Pumpkin, Turmeric, Blueberry, Coffee, Yogurt, Green Tea, Red Cabbage, Olive oil and more antioxidant rich foods. These energy-rich superfoods support good lung function and ensure you are not just taking care of your respiratory health, but improving your overall health.
Prevention and Preparation
Almost every infection has an active or surrogate impact on your lungs. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based sanitizers are a good substitute if you cannot wash them. A good oral hygiene schedule can protect you from the germs in your mouth leading to infections. Brush your teeth at least twice daily to prevent any infections and plaque. Getting vaccinated is also another way to stay safe. Isolate yourself if you get sick and protect the people around you including your loved ones by keeping your distance. Stay home until you're feeling better.
Regular Workout and Checkups
Yoga and daily physical workouts help in building immunity in the body. For better airflow in your lungs, it is recommended to practice Yoga and perform other physical exercises, without overburdening the body. Regular aerobic exercises can also counter breathing issues and make your lungs and breathing muscles stronger. Regular check-ups help in better disease management. This is especially true for lung diseases, which sometimes go undetected until the disease becomes severe. Preparation for any adverse situation begins with prevention and better lifestyle patterns.