Eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential for everyone, but for those living with a chronic lung condition, it is even more important to eat well. The food and drinks we consume can help us achieve better overall health and the nutrients can help protect the lungs against infection.
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According to the British Lung Foundation, there are certain foods you should be consuming as part of a healthy, balanced diet that can help improve lung health.
Fruits and vegetables
You should aim for at least five different fruits and vegetables each day to aid lung health. Try to eat a variety of colors to ensure you get lots of different vitamins and minerals.
Fiber
In addition to the fiber in the fruits and vegetables you eat, you should also consume some whole grain fiber. Whole grain bread, pasta, and rice are all great sources of fiber and the carbohydrate content will give you energy.
Protein
Protein is essential for keeping muscles strong — including the chest and abdomen muscles that are needed for breathing. Protein can be found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, eat a variety of legumes, nuts and tofu.
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