Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (197 page)

Fruits and vegetables, particularly apples, contain compounds that are protective of the lungs.

Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and kale.

Green foods, which contain chlorophyll and magnesium. Chlorophyll can help to improve lung function and magnesium is a natural muscle and nerve relaxant. Good sources include kale, broccoli, savoy cabbage, spinach, chard, salad greens, bok choy, and alfalfa sprouts.

Warm water. Water is needed to thin the mucus so that the body can eliminate it.

Beta-carotene-rich foods. Beta-carotene is the precursor to vitamin A, which is needed for healing the mucus membranes in the lungs. Good sources include carrots, apricots, papaya, squash, pumpkins, spinach, watercress, and broccoli.

AVOID

Dairy products, fried foods, red meat and processed meats, eggs, refined white carbohydrates, processed foods, and junk foods. These can all lead to mucus building up in the respiratory tract, which can reduce breathing capacity and cause irritation in the lungs.

Cold foods and drinks. These can create spasms and coughing fits.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Take coenzyme Q10. This can improve oxygenation to the tissues.

Take vitamin C with bioflavanoids. Vitamin C can help to heal inflamed tissue and prevent infection.

Astragalus may help to strengthen lung function.

Mullein can help release mucus from the lungs.

EXTRA TIPS

Avoid chemicals and pollution as much as possible. Use only natural household products in your home, as chemicals in most household products can irritate the lungs.