How certain fruits can improve your lung function

By Simran Jeet

Mar 13, 2025

02:52 pm

What's the story

Fruits are not just tasty, they can also do wonders for your respiratory health.

Some fruits are packed with nutrients and compounds that promote lung health and ease breathing problems.

Including these fruits in your diet can improve your respiratory health and overall well-being.

Here are some fruits that can help you breathe better, their benefits, and how they improve lung health.

Vitamin C

Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C.

The nutrient is known for its antioxidant properties that protect the lungs from the damage caused by pollutants and free radicals.

Eating citrus regularly may reduce inflammation in the airways and make breathing easier.

Adding these fruits to your everyday diet can give your respiratory system a natural boost.

Quercetin

Apples are loaded with quercetin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that promote lung health.

According to studies, regular apple consumption is linked with better lung function and a lower risk of experiencing asthma attacks.

The fiber content in apples also aids overall health by ensuring good digestion and curbing inflammation all over the body.

Antioxidants

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are loaded with antioxidants like anthocyanins.

These potent compounds are key to reducing oxidative stress on the lungs by efficiently neutralizing harmful free radicals.

The regular inclusion of these berries can enhance your lung capacity and may considerably reduce the risk of chronic respiratory diseases.

This makes berries an indispensable part of a diet for better respiratory health.

Potassium

Bananas are also an excellent source of potassium.

Potassium is an important mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining healthy lung function.

Potassium regulates fluid balance in the body, which in turn ensures proper contraction of muscles, including those responsible for breathing.

Eating bananas can ensure optimal flow of oxygen throughout the body.

Bromelain

Pineapples have bromelain, an enzyme praised for its anti-inflammatory properties on the respiratory tract.

Bromelain breaks down the mucus accumulation in airways, which can relieve breathing problems caused due to diseases such as asthma or bronchitis.

Including pineapples in your diet could provide congestion relief as well as overall lung health.