Lungs are one of the most vital organs in the human body. Responsible for the fundamental act of breathing, lungs play a very important role in keeping the body healthy, and the body functions running efficiently. However, in recent times, diseases such as lung cancer have become extremely common.
In fact, lung cancer is the most common type of cancer around the world and is responsible for millions of deaths, every year. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, lifestyle factors, and air pollution only add to the already high risk of lung cancer.
With the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic looming over our heads and the fact that the virus affects the lungs as a primary organ, it is extremely important to take proper care of the vital organ. Since diet can play a very important role in keeping our organs healthy, here are 5 foods you must include in your diet to reduce the risk of lung disorders, including cancer.
Cruciferous vegetables
The family of vegetables includes cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, etc. These foods can really reduce the risk of many diseases, including cancer. These foods are rich in sulforaphane, which is known for its cancer-fighting properties.
Orange and red foods
Orange and red foods such as carrots, oranges, peppers, etc are rich in carotenoid – an antioxidant that gives them the colour. These antioxidants can also safeguard smokers from lung cancer. According to the Singapore Chinese Health Study, these antioxidants can reduce the risk of cancer by 25 percent, and by 37 percent in smokers.
Soy
Some research suggests that estrogen may play a role in lung cancer, as they do in the development of breast cancer. Since soy foods help in keeping the hormone under control, including soy in your diet may be a good idea to keep lung cancer at bay.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish such as salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient helps in keeping the lungs healthy by minimizing the effect of cigarette smoke in the lungs.
Green vegetables
Green vegetables such as spinach that are rich in folate can help to keep lung cancer at bay. Folate is a type of B vitamin that safeguards cells from tobacco carcinogens, reducing the risk of lung cancer.