We cannot control the impact of air pollution on our lungs and respiratory system unless we relocate. Unfortunately, that’s not a feasible option for most of us. But a proper diet can help. Many harmful foods increase mucus secretion, trigger inflammation, or bloating, impacting the lungs immediately. Here, we’ll go over the eight worst foods for lung health. Avoid them at all costs to keep your lungs healthy.

1. Cold or chilled food
The respiratory mucosa is a mucus membrane that covers our respiratory tract to protect it from pathogens. When you drink a cold beverage or ice cream, the lining tends to shrink and exposes the respiratory tract to infections. Chilled food can also aid in mucus production. So those at risk or already suffering from lung-related diseases like bronchitis or asthma should avoid cold beverages.

2. Dairy products
A compound called casomorphin is released when milk is broken down during digestion. Casomporphin can increase mucus production. Hence, those at risk for lung diseases should reduce milk consumption to one glass a day and avoid rich dairy products like cheese and sour cream.

3. Carbonated beverages
If you’re healthy and hooked to sodas, stop! There’s more than enough evidence to prove that sodas have zero value. They promote bloating, and the burp after a soda isn’t the release of gas as many of us mistake it to be. The number of chemicals and additives that give soda color, fizz, and flavor directly damage the lungs. Revert to fresh fruit and juice asap!

4. Cruciferous vegetables
Broccoli is rarely discarded as a cause of bad health as it’s rich in antioxidants and anticancer properties. But it can cause bloating and add stress on the lungs and is counted among the worst foods for lung health.

5. Simple carbohydrates
Simple carbs are harmful for any inflammation-related illnesses. They trigger inflammation and take too much time to digest, adding strain on the lungs. So avoid white rice, white bread, pasta, and foods containing corn syrup.

6. Processed foods
The only good thing about processed and packaged food is its convenience. Loaded with trans and saturated fat and cooked at extreme temperatures, they have hidden salts and sugar and contain synthetic preservatives to prolong shelf life. The lungs are sensitive to these ingredients, and constant intake may affect cardiovascular health, promote weight gain, reduce immunity, and trigger asthma. Cold cuts, mainly, contain nitrates which promote COPD, a chronic lung disease. So reduce their intake to the barest minimum.

7. Excessive salt
Salt aids in water retention and leads to breathing problems. So use minimum salt. A healthy alternative would be using fresh herbs and spices for seasoning.

8. Acidic fruits
Acidic fruits cause heartburn and acid reflux. Those with these conditions are at an increased risk of lung-related issues. To maintain lung health, avoid acidic fruits and vegetables like citrus, tomatoes, onion, and chili – the worst foods for lung health.