Poor lung functions can lead to a host of problems. But adopting healthy habits can help you maintain good lung health and keep them working optimally—even in your senior years. Here are a few ways to keep your lungs healthy:
- Exercise regularly – According to the lung specialists in New Jersey, getting regular exercise is probably the most important thing you can do for lung health. When you exercise, the heart beats faster and the lungs work harder. Your lungs work harder to deliver oxygen while expelling additional carbon dioxide. The more you exercise, the more efficient your lungs become. Even if you do develop lung disease down the road, exercise helps to slow the progression and keeps you active longer.
- Drink plenty of water – Staying hydrated helps just about every part of the body, including your lungs. Good hydration helps clear mucus, keeps blood flowing smoothly and reduces the likelihood of respiratory infections. Try to drink two liters a day. That’s about eight glasses of water.
- Prevent infections – Infections can be dangerous for your lungs, especially when you age. Those who already have lung diseases such as COPD are particularly at risk for infections. The lung health program (North Bergen, New Jersey) says that the best way to avoid lung infections is to keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face as much as possible. Drink plenty of water and eat lots of fruits and vegetables to help boost the immune system. Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations.
- Improve your posture – Every breath you take is a workout for your lungs and diaphragm, so give them as much help as possible. When you maintain proper posture, oxygen passes through the lungs more efficiently and requires less energy. Sit up properly at work and try not to slump when you walk.
- Quit Smoking – Cigarettes have proven to be very damaging to your health. According to a recent study, more than four in five lung-cancer patients are smokers. Quitting usually takes several attempts. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. And there’s certainly no shortage of resources to help you quit.
- Avoid exposure to pollutants – Exposure to pollutants in the air can damage lungs and accelerate aging. The lung health education program in North Bergen, New Jersey recommends reducing your exposure as much as you can:
- Avoid second-hand smoke.
- Avoid exercising near heavy traffic as you can breathe in the exhaust.
- If you’re exposed to pollutants at work, be sure to take safety precautions.
- Dust your furniture and vacuum at least once a week.
Learn more about GSMG’s lung health education program in North Bergen, New Jersey. Contact us today!