For many patients recovering from the COVID-19 virus is only the half battle won. It has been observed that many patients still suffer from not so pleasing after-effects of the damages done by COVID-19 virus to the vital organs – lungs.

One of the main focus points during overall post-COVID-19 recovery is restoring lung function. There are many benefits of focusing on lung health. COVID-19 can have long-term effects on lung function. A crucial part of the recovery process is to regain proper lung function and capacity. Improving our lung function also clears the lungs of sputum thus making it easier to breathe.

Below are 10 best foods recommended by the Ministry of Health to eat for improving your lung health after you recover from COVID-19.

Eating healthy foods – Including foods that are rich in antioxidants improves our overall immune system, and consequently our lung function. Healthy food can provide essential nutrients and make the lungs healthier.

Green leafy vegetables are one of best foods to eat for improving lung health after COVID-19

Pears

Pears contain a variety of nutrients, such as malic acid, citric acid, carotene, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, and vitamin C. Pears are a rich source of flavonoid antioxidants, which help fight inflammation in pneumonia patients.

Apples

Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, all of which benefit health. They are rich in a phytonutrient called quercetin, which has been clinically shown to be beneficial for the lungs. Quercetin has also been linked to better pulmonary function in people who smoke and have emphysema, and may reduce the overall effects of cigarette smoke. Research has shown that regularly eating apples may help promote lung function. Apple intake has also been linked to a lower risk of asthma and lung cancer.

Grapefruit

Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and it provides fiber and antioxidants. These can help combat the formation of free radicals, which experts believe give rise to cancer. Vitamin C helps support the immune system in a number of ways. For example, a dietary intake of vitamin C may help prevent and treat respiratory and other infections. In particular, older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those who smoke should ensure that they have an adequate intake of vitamin C. Grapefruit may be a good option.

Coffee

Coffee is packed with caffeine and antioxidants, which may be beneficial for lung health. Research shows that coffee intake may help improve lung function and protect against respiratory diseases. For example, caffeine acts as a vasodilator, meaning it helps open blood vessels, and it may help reduce symptoms in people with asthma, at least in the short term. Studies show that caffeine could help play a role in fighting off some viruses like COVID-19.  Caffeine is an ingredient found in coffee, tea, cola drinks and cocoa and in over 60 plants. Clinical studies have shown that caffeine is a weak bronchodilator, improving lung function for two to four hours after it is consumed. Just the right amount of coffee can be particularly beneficial for lung function after COVID-19.

Green Tea

Green tea is a beverage that has impressive effects on health. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the lungs. It may also protect lung tissues from the harmful effects of smoke inhalation.

Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds, including cashew nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds, and walnuts are good sources of protein, healthy fats, fibres, vitamins, and minerals. Studies show that nut and seed intake may help protect against lung cancer, improve respiratory function in people with asthma, and enhance antioxidant defenses and immune function, which may help improve lung health.

Garlic, ginger

Garlic and its secondary metabolites have shown excellent health-promoting and disease-preventing effects on many human common diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, blood pressure, and diabetes, through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering properties, as demonstrated in several in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Eating raw garlic twice or triple a week can cut the chances of lung cancer by almost half. Studies showed those who ate raw garlic at least twice a week cut the risk of lung cancer by 44 per cent, even if they were exposed to high-temperature cooking-oil fumes, which is thought to be another trigger for the disease. Meanwhile, ginger has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Because of this, it is thought to boost your overall immunity. For people with arthritis, its anti-inflammatory properties are of particular benefit. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds that function in the same way as COX-2 inhibitors.

Radishes

Radishes are best known for their aid in improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure. This is brought by the nutrient and antioxidant content of radishes, specifically potassium, calcium, and other natural nitrates. Radishes also contain vitamin C, which also plays an important role in collagen production. Collagen helps improve the strength and flexibility of our blood vessels, decreasing the chances of atherosclerosis.

Just one cup of sliced radishes provides 30 percent of the daily value for immune-supporting. Vitamin C is a micronutrient essential for humans, as it contributes to immune defense through supporting cellular functionality. This micronutrient works as a barrier against pathogens and environmental oxidative stress. Radishes also contain small amounts of B vitamins, potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium to aid in standard bodily functions.

Tomato

Tomatoes and tomato products are among the richest dietary sources of lycopene, a carotenoid antioxidant that has been associated with improved lung health.

Consuming tomato products has been shown to reduce airway inflammation in people with asthma and improve lung function in people with COPD.

Green leafy vegetables

Green leafy vegetables such as collard greens, spinach, kale, and cabbage are full of vitamins and minerals that are needed to both boost the immune system as well as maintain an overall healthy body. They have been known to help prevent certain diseases as well.

They also protect your body by strengthening the immune system, slowing down signs of ageing, and preventing heart diseases, high blood pressure, and cancers. Beetroots and greens contain compounds that optimize lung function. They are rich in nitrates, which have shown to have positive effects on the lungs.

In particular, cabbage is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It is especially high in vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that may protect against heart disease, certain cancers and vision loss. In addition, it contains many different antioxidants that have been shown to reduce chronic inflammation. In fact, research has shown that eating more cabbage reduces certain blood markers of inflammation, and reduces cough in patients with pneumonia.

Reporting by K.Q – translating by H.L