Smog Affecting Your Health! Eating these Foods can Protect you from Air Pollution

How does Smog cause health problems?

When you breathe in polluted air, particulate matter and other pollutants penetrate and inflame the linings of your bronchial tubes and lungs. This leads to respiratory illnesses such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, heart disease, lung cancer, asthma, wheezing, coughing and difficulty in breathing. If you have any existing cardiac and respiratory conditions, they will also worsen due to exposure to air pollutants.

However, remember that if you want the “protective” effect of the food to be long-lasting, you need to consume it regularly. As we breathe the polluted air all the time, it’s imperative to maintain your detoxifying diet so that your body can build up and maintain a natural protection.

In order to stay protected from the ill-effects of air pollution and keep your kids and family safe, these are the foods you should include in your diet:

1. Olive oil

Vitamin E contained in olive oil, improves lung function. The fatty acids contained in olive oil are also helpful for reducing inflammation. The best way to ingest olive oil and get maximum benefits is through your salads as exposure to heat during cooking could change its chemical composition and lose some of its health properties.

2. Flaxseed

Flaxseed has high levels of phytoestrogens and omega 3 fatty acids. Phytoestrogens have anti-oxidant properties that help to reduce the symptoms of asthma and other allergic reactions. You can take flaxseed daily in smoothies, salads or add it to your baked foods.

3. Avocado

Vitamin E can reduce the effects of air pollution on the lungs. The study noted decreased levels of vitamin E in people suffering from lung conditions such as asthma, prompting the researchers to conclude that consuming foods such as avocado and spinach, both high in vitamin E, can help to counteract the effects of certain types of particulate pollution.

4. Tomatoes

Your diet should also include lots of fresh tomatoes as they have lycopene, an antioxidant that protects against respiratory illnesses.

5. Broccoli

Broccoli is one of the best foods that can help protect your body from air pollution. Eating this vegetable cleanses the body from polluting substances. Research has shown that some of the active ingredients found in this vegetable can help expunge some types of air pollutants.

6. Basil

It is well known that basil is an anti-bacterial herb and full of antioxidants to protect the liver. It is also a nutritious powerhouse. 4 or 5 leaves in a day are enough to improve the immune system and to remain healthier.

7. Ginger

If you love the spicy taste of ginger, you definitely should add it to your food and drinks on a regular basis. You can use fresh ginger root or powdered ginger as both types are rich in potent anti-inflammatory elements. In addition, ginger is a natural adaptogen, so it helps keep your adrenal system healthy and enhances your natural ability to withstand different stressors, including air pollution.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which is used as medicine. Ayurveda has value this spice as a medicine. It helps to prevent cancer. The primary purpose of a detoxification exercise is to support the organs of elimination like liver, turmeric comes to the rescue. So a tablespoon of turmeric in a day is enough to prevent all diseases.

9. Garlic

Garlic is the high source of sulphur content, that is beneficial for your skin and make your hair shiny. It helps to detoxify the toxin in your body. You should include more sulphur rich foods in your diet. Clove is also a sulphuric herb.

10. Fruits rich in vitamin C

Fruits such as oranges, strawberries, apples, and watermelons are the rich sources of vitamin C. while guavas, red bell peppers, kale, parsley, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, papayas, spinach, citrus fruits, green onion and more are the good in Vitamin C and help to reduce the harmful effects of smog.