Do you suffer from breathing issues such as nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease, nasal polyps, COPD, or are you prone to asthma attacks or other health issues that can cause breathing problems? In addition to following the proper treatment, NTM treatment guidelines, inquiring about shot registration and information (like the Novavax booster shot to prevent furtehr infection), and participating in clinical trials and medical trials, doctors often recommend certain lifestyle and dietary changes to help you breathe better.

Navigating health concerns such as nasal polyps, lung cancer, and asthma demands a comprehensive approach to treatment. For swollen nasal polyps, corticosteroids are often recommended to alleviate inflammation and promote relief. In the realm of lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer, treatments like nivolumab may be considered, showcasing advancements in immunotherapy. Sinonasal polyposis, characterized by the presence of nasal polyps, may benefit from a combination of surgical intervention and corticosteroid therapy. Addressing seasonal asthma involves a tailored approach to manage symptoms triggered by specific environmental factors. Additionally, for those dealing with alpha-1 antitrypsin COPD, personalized treatment plans and support are essential in mitigating the impact of this genetic condition on respiratory health. In navigating these health challenges, consulting with healthcare professionals remains paramount to determine the most effective and personalized treatment strategies.

For example, the following foods can help manage allergy signs and symptoms as well as improve your breathing:

1. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that can add a kick to your food. It is also known for its ability to reduce inflammation. Curcumin is the main ingredient in this spice. One particular study monitored a group of 2,478 participants who consumed curcumin on a regular basis. The results showed that curcumin consumption improved overall lung function, even in smokers. Interestingly, the study also showed that smokers who consumed curcumin had better lung function than nonsmokers who didn’t consume any curcumin rich foods.

2. Blueberries
Blueberries can help protect your lungs due to the numerous antioxidants within, including anthocyanins, which protect the tissue inside the lungs. One study monitored the findings of 839 veterans who consumed blueberries on a regular basis. The findings reported that eating blueberries (and dark berries of any kind) helped to protect against lung decline. In fact, eating at least two servings of berries per week can reduce lung decline by up to 38 percent.

3. Pumpkin
Carotenoids are a type of antioxidant that is found in pumpkins that optimize lung function. IN fact, carotenoids can also reduce inflammation throughout the entire body. Evidence suggests that consuming pumpkin can help reduce the chances of developing lung cancer. Vitamin A and vitamin C, which pumpkins are rich in, help keep the  immune system strong so it has the ability to clear cancerous cells out of the body. Vitamin A and vitamin C can also protect against free radicals, which trigger the growth of cancerous cells, including lung cancer cells.

4. Beets and beet greens
Beets contain certain compounds known as nitrates that can improve lung function. Nitrates decrease blood pressure, relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and make breathing easier by increasing oxygen uptake. Furthermore, beets and beet greens are rich in vitamin C, magnesium and potassium, nutrients that help the lungs function better.

5. Apples
An apple a day can make it easier for you to breathe. Apples are abundant in an antioxidant called quercetin. People who have lung damage have less quercetin in their bodies. Increasing the amount of quercetin in your diet can improve lung function and heal lung damage. Studies show that people who eat at least five apples per week can reduce their overall risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (or COPD).