Neither garlic nor green tea: The food that will help you cleanse both lungs and that you have forgotten

Respiratory diseases are now among the leading causes of death in Spain. At least 78,000 people die each year due to lung problems, according to data from the Spanish Society of General and Family Physicians (SEMG). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the cause of most deaths and presents the greatest challenge for pulmonologists, as excessive tobacco use among the population remains the main problem, leading to increasing calls for smoke-free spaces.

The lungs are two essential organs for the body's functioning. Located in the chest and protected by the rib cage, their function is to exchange gases , that is, to absorb the oxygen needed for life and release carbon dioxide as waste . Therefore, caring for them should be the first priority for good health. Keeping them clean and clear is of great importance, and although this part of the body has the ability to purify itself, nutrition also plays a role in this area.

Five common habits that damage your lungs

The forgotten food that cleanses your lungs

It's often been said that garlic is one of the best foods for the lungs , as is drinking green tea. However, another plant that the Spanish population has forgotten is ginger . Widely consumed in Asian culture, this food known for its unique heat has been praised numerous times for its medicinal properties . It's no surprise, therefore, that medical professionals sometimes recommend its consumption.

For example, pulmonologists such as Dr. Flandes , Associate Chief of the Pulmonology Service and Director of the Bronchoscopy and Interventional Pulmonology Unit at the Jiménez Díaz Foundation University Hospital, lists ginger on his medical portal as an ally in respiratory health.

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it "relieves inflammation in the respiratory tract and reduces the symptoms of asthma and allergies." Among the nutrients ginger offers, its high water content makes it an ideal choice for cleansing the lungs.

Mucus is naturally produced in these organs, but some irritants or infections can increase its presence. In this sense, water is the best ally for expectorating and cleansing both lungs . This, combined with other nutrients in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, helps fight viruses and bacteria, as studies show.

Other foods recommended by pulmonologists

Garlic and green tea have already been discussed, but the list of allies for respiratory health includes other foods besides ginger. It's worth remembering that a balanced diet keeps the body healthy, and knowing the properties of each food can help prevent disease. What other foods do pulmonologists recommend?

References

Francisco, OS (n.d.). More than 78,000 people die each year in Spain from respiratory diseases. http://semg.es/index.php/noticias/item/1290-noticia-20250505

Siedentopp, U. (2008). Ginger: An Effective Medicinal Plant as a Drug, Spice, or Infusion. International Journal of Acupuncture, 2(3), 188–192. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1887-8369(08)72011-8

Lextrend. (2024, April 15). What foods help prevent respiratory tract diseases? - Dr. Flandes Aldeyturriaga. Dr. Flandes Aldeyturriaga. https://www.doctorflandes.com/alimentos-ayudan-prevenir-enfermedades-las-vias-respiratorias/

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